Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Oct 23: Congress leader Padmaraj R Poojary on Wednesday addressed a press conference strongly condemning BJP leader Brijesh Chowta’s recent remarks against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
During a public event, Chowta had reportedly commented, “Unable to do anything with the hands, but knows everything with the body” (“Kaiyalli aagadu, mai yella parichaya”) while referring to the chief minister.
Terming the statement “unwarranted and disrespectful,” Poojary said personal attacks on political leaders were unacceptable. “We, the people of Dakshina Kannada, have great respect and affection for Chowta, who is an educated and capable leader. Hence, I request him to maintain dignity in his words,” he said.
Speaking on the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Poojary questioned the need to celebrate the reduction in tax rates. “They claim GST has been reduced from 18% and 12% to 5%. But what is there to celebrate? Even essential services like health insurance is taxed. When I renewed a health policy, I was told it would not fall under the 0% rate since it was a group policy. If there is a good initiative, we will appreciate it — but false information should not be spread,” he stated.
Highlighting the state government’s welfare initiatives, Poojary said, “Under the leadership of primary and secondary education minister Madhu Bangarappa, 17 new Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) are being established to ensure that every child, including those from poor families, receives quality education. Similarly, the Rutuchakra scheme for women’s health has been launched. Such initiatives deserve appreciation irrespective of political differences.”
He also referred to a recent event attended by CM Siddaramaiah in Puttur, where heavy rain caused some inconvenience to participants. Poojary noted that adequate medical assistance was promptly provided to those affected.
“Politics is one side, but when there is genuine development or a good initiative, everyone should learn to appreciate it,” Poojary concluded.