Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Oct 6: Tensions flared at the Udupi city council meeting as MLA Yashpal Suvarna and BJP supporters clashed with CMC commissioner Rayappa over the removal of a banner associated with the Hindu Samajotsava.

The BJP members expressed strong objections to the banner's removal, claiming that the municipal officials had not acted on their instructions.

An incensed MLA Yash Pal Suvarna exclaimed, "The municipal officials have not done the work we instructed them to do."

In response, commissioner Rayappa defended his team's actions, stating, "Should we not do our job? We certainly have respect for the MLA."

He went on to explain that they had received a letter from the police department regarding the illegal installation of the banner. The MLA was duly informed and requested to obtain the necessary permission.

Rayappa added, "Today, 29 requests for permission have been submitted, and I have not rejected any. I have been in service for 30 years, and I must speak my mind."

Expressing his frustration, he continued, "From tomorrow onwards, we will not rush to the office at 5:30 am. I and all of my staff members will come at 10:30 am and return at 5:30 pm mechanically and inconsequentially. We won't touch any banners anymore, even if they are erected illegally. We won't interfere in any illegal activities henceforth. I came here three months before and have learnt a good lesson today. For your kind information, I have worked as deputy commissioner in Mangaluru earlier."

In response to allegations by the MLA and his supporters, commissioner Rayappa provided evidence by showing the letter from the police department to Yashpal Suvarna.