Pic: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Oct 29: Former MLC Ivan D’Souza said, “BJP have politicised saffron colour.”

Addressing media here on Friday October 29, Ivan, “Recently Bajrang Dal tried to gherao my residence over my statement on a TV debate. I have not said anything about Bajrang Dal or saffron colour. It was a debate regarding cops dressed in saffron attire during Ayudha Puja. During the debate, I just pointed out the statement of Chaitra Kundapur who delivered a provocative speech at Surathkal. Chaitra said in her speech that people call Bajrang Dal members as rowdies, and they are involved in rowdyism and moral policing.

“Bajrang Dal are not hurt for what people say about them or what Chaitra Kundapur says in her speech. Instead they are hurt for pointing out Chaitra Kundapur’s speech during the TV debate. Bajrang Dal should decide whether they should gherao my residence or Chaitra Kundapur’s residence. If Bajrang Dal are hurt with my words during the TV debate, I apologize.”

He also said, “BJP are politicizing the saffron colour. Saffron is a holy colour which is also in our national flag. Saffron colours are also used by our bishops and I respect the saffron colour and all religions. I celebrate every festival publicly where religious leaders and Swamijis are also invited.”

Reacting to the recent statement of Swamiji of Vajradehi Math, Ivan said, “I did not expect such a statement from Swamiji. I will not speak lightly about Swamiji as I respect him. I want to bring to the notice of the Swamiji that when I was the MLC under the coalition government, Rs 1 crore was sanctioned for the development of Math. Instead of concentrating on saffron colour, it is better for them to raise voice against mixing politics and religion.”

When asked about bypolls, Ivan said, “Congress will win the two assembly seats as people are frustrated with BJP’s administration which gifted the public hike in prices of petroleum products and other commodities.”