Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, Dec 14: MLA Yashpal Suvarna said that Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader avoided attending a programme organised by Puttige Swamiji, fearing protests from party workers.
“Our workers were ready to show black flags and raise slogans. Fearing this, he did not attend the programme. Khader is aspiring for a ministerial post if there is a change in the chief minister. By criticising MLAs who speak about Hindutva, he may be trying to attract the attention of the high command,” Suvarna alleged.
BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna expressed strong dissatisfaction over the remarks made by Speaker U T Khader during the recent Assembly session. Speaking to the media, Suvarna said, “I am an elected MLA, and I have every right to speak about my constituency and its problems. The question I raised seeking grants for the Udupi Paryaya was sent 15 days in advance. It was a valid and scheduled question.”
He further said that while he was raising an important issue, he was interrupted by the Speaker and asked to stop his “Harikatha” and come straight to the point. “He said that members should not speak merely to appear on television. Out of respect for the Chair, I remained silent. However, the Speaker spoke lightly and made casual remarks about Harikatha, which is part of our Hindu religious tradition. That is not right,” he said.
Suvarna stated that he has never indulged in irrelevant discussions in the Assembly. “I have never diverted the discussion. Many MLAs speak for one hour or more, yet no objection is raised. When I speak about Udupi, it becomes an issue. Udupi is a Hindutva-oriented district, and issues related to the development of the city and the Paryaya Mahotsava have been unfairly criticised,” he said.
“I respect the Chair, but it is the Speaker’s responsibility to protect the dignity of that post. I have shown restraint only out of respect,” he added.
Demanding an apology, Suvarna said, “UT Khader must apologise to the people of Udupi. Criticising an MLA for seeking grants for the Paryaya is completely wrong. Over the last three monsoons, we have witnessed record rainfall. Roads and drainage systems in Udupi city have been washed away, but no adequate grants have been released by the government. People have elected me to serve them, and I will continue to raise their issues.”