Watch: Why this Karnataka minister said 'Let Modi die, if he wants power...'

Higher Education minister’s comment on Modi has landed him in soup BJP now wants the minister be removed from the cabinet

The minister's reaction has snowballed into a controversy with BJP demanding for his removal from the cabinet.

On Friday, reporters queried the minister on what he thought about the removal of red beacons from VVIP cars. At this, minister said he welcomes the move and suggested that his security cover too be withdrawn. But Modi should remove his security cordon too. When reporters pointed out about threat to Modi’s life, the minister said "if he (Modi) wants power, let him die." Later, the minister clarified that he did not mean Modi but those in power should not be afraid to die. They should desist from having security cover, even the red beacons.

He further said that he welcomes Centre’s move to remove red beacons from VVIP cars. "I have never sought for protection and I do not hesitate to travel in my own car. If someone wants to kill me, I’m not afraid. Let it be so," the minister said adding if the government intends to remove security cover, he will have no problem with it. But banning red beacons and retaining security is nothing but an eyewash, the minister remarked. 

Although, the minister has clarified his comments, BJP has asked for his removal from the cabinet. Reacting to the minister's comments, Chikkmagaluru BJP legislator CT Ravi stated that it is state's unfortunate to have Basavaraj Rayareddy who wants Modi to die as our higher education minister. Such comments show Congress' true culture, he tweeted.