Overview: On 6 July 2026, R. Ashok, Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka’s Legislative Assembly, accused the state Congress government of trying to protect illegal Bangladeshi migrants by issuing PRC. He made the allegation while attending a programme that honoured newly‑elected BJP MLC Raghu Kautilya. The criticism was echoed by BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra and other senior leaders.
Key Developments
- Opposition leaders claim the SIR of voter lists has made it harder for illegal migrants to vote, prompting the PRC proposal.
- They argue that only the Centre can decide on citizenship and domicile, not a state government.
- The opposition alleges that around 20‑30 lakh illegal Bangladeshi migrants reside in Karnataka, with a senior police officer reportedly confirming recent deportations of about 250 nationals.
- BJP leaders announced plans to meet the Governor to seek a halt to the PRC scheme.
Important Facts
The Congress government’s proposal would empower Revenue Inspectors to issue PRC to residents. Opposition parties contend that this step violates the Constitution because citizenship and domicile are exclusive Union subjects. They also link the move to electoral advantage, suggesting that illegal migrants tend to support the ruling party.
Key political figures present at the event included MLA T.S. Srivatsa, MLC Raghu Kautilya, former MP Pratap Simha, and senior BJP leaders such as Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar and Chaluvadi Narayanaswamy.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the constitutional division of powers between the Union and the states is essential for GS 2 (Polity). The debate highlights:
- The role of the