Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Dec 22: MLC Ivan D’Souza, on Saturday, December 21, came down heavily on the Karnataka government for detaining Congress delegation led by leader of opposition in the legislative council S R Patil at Mangaluru Airport on December 20.

"The BJP ministers were allowed to enter Mangaluru city but the Congress leaders who are from the opposition were detained. The ruling government should be aware that the opposition has equal responsibilities, similar to that of the chief minister. We have also brought the issue to the notice of the chief minister," he said.

He further questioned, "Is Tuglaq Darbar ruling the state? Does the ruling government think Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Yediyurappa are enough for this nation? It seems like the ruling government does not want opposition party leaders and opposition ministers to be in this country. We shall raise the issue in the upcoming parliament. If the BJP does not have the guts to rule the nation and face opposition, then they should give up their position," challenged Ivan D’Souza.

Mangaluru constituency MLA U T Khader said he has not given any politically motivated statements. "Let Mangaluru be in in peace. People are being misled. The issue has been discussed with home minister. I have also spoken about giving compensation to the victim who died in shootout."

"I will not give reaction to political motivated statements. I have been criticised and many have tried to pull me down. I am not bothered. I will use the stones they throw as stepping stones," he said.

"Central ministers and chief minister have asked me about protest. However, I have said that no protest was reported in my constituency. I do not know whether they are giving such statements intentionally?  BJP is trying to tag its failures on others head. It is not good for a responsible government. I am requesting them to not give scope for anti-development. A small conflict between police and public has brought them to this condition," Khader said.