Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar clarified his remark about not wanting Keralites, stating it was directed at the Kerala government's alleged interference in Karnataka's affairs, not the people of Kerala. He accused the BJP of misrepresenting his comments, emphasizing his cordial relationship with Keralites and his respect for them. The clarification followed criticism from the BJP after Shivakumar's initial statement, which was made during a controversy involving an encroachment eviction drive in Bengaluru and criticism from Kerala's Chief Minister.