Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Mar 13: BJP leader KS Eshwarappa said, “I never told that we do not need Muslim votes. Our party needs votes of Muslims who are nationalists only.”
The leader addressed media on Monday March 13. When asked his controversial remarks over Azaan, Eshwarappa said, “Loud speakers used for Azaan disturb many including students who study for exams and patients in hospital. I am speaking on behalf of people who are disturbed by Azaan due to loud speakers. Muslim leaders need to think and take the right decision regarding Azaan. I have not disrespected the religion by my statement and not stoked any controversy over Azaan.”
On corruption charges against the BJP, Eshwarappa said, “The Congress are charging BJP of indulging in corruption to hide their own corruption cases. So far, they have not filed a single case of any corruption. When there is a specific document on the corruption charges, a probe can be undertaken.”
On query regarding Karnataka BJP MLA K Madal Virupakshappa being an accused in a bribery case receiving a rousing welcome after securing bail, Eshwarappa aid, “I oppose the rousing welcome given to the MLA. Even D K Shivakumar received the same rousing welcome after bail, but Congress have never opposed it.”
When asked about tickets in the upcoming elections and if he will get be contesting the polls, Eshwarappa said, “Getting the ticket for upcoming election is not important, but we will definitely gain majority. The high command will take a call on giving the tickets based upon internal survey report.”