From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network
Bengaluru, Nov 9: Taking potshots at ruling BJP for forcing the government college students to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s programme for unveiling the Kempe Gowda statue on November 11, KPCC Chief D K Shivakumar wondered why the ruling party is compelling college students to assemble for Modi’s programme.
Speaking to media persons in Bengaluru, Shivakumar wanted to know whether the ruling BJP is so desperate to ensure a big crowd at Prime Minister’s function for unveiling the Kempe Gowda statue.
“We have nothing against Prime Minister’s visit. Let Modi come and hold any number of public meetings. But why BJP is unable to get people to attend the programme. If they have any belief in their boast of double engine rule, let the BJP get people to attend based on their three year rule,’’ he said criticizing the attempts to bring college students to attend Modi’s programme.
“Is the Prime Minister attending a function pertaining to education in an educational institution,’’ he asked attacking the Basavaraj Bommai regime’s circular to the government colleges to send their students to Modi’s programme and demanded that the government should immediately withdraw its controversial circular.
Shivakumar said: “This is an insult to the country and mockery of the education system. The Prime Minister must answer why such things are happening in the State.’’
Congress condemns Jarkiholi’s statement
Asked about the Congress leader and MLA from Belagavi district Satish Jarkiholi on the meaning of Hindu, the KPCC Chief said Jarkiholi has defended his statement claiming that he has read it in books. “I am not aware of it. But I firmly believe that nobody should say anything against religion and culture,’’ he said.
Shivakumar explained that Congress opposition leader Siddaramaiah and AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala have already clarified that the party believes in not offending any religion or culture. “My stand is very clear. I condemn that statement very strongly. Let BJP do anything to make political capital out of the issue. But there is no change in my stand,’’ he declared.
To a question on BJP minister Munirathna’s invitation to him to join BJP to become Chief Minister as it is not possible in Congress party, Shivakumar said: “This clearly proves that BJP has dearth of leaders to become Chief Ministers.’’