Daijwiorld Media Network - Beltangady

Beltangady, Aug 15: During the Independence Day celebration organized by the Beltangady taluk administration, Beltangady MLA Harish Poonja's speech has sparked controversy, with accusations that it threatened the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the country. Shekhar L, a member of the Caste Abolition Committee of the Puttur Subdivision, has demanded that a case be filed against the MLA under the Prevention of Anti-National Activities Act.

The speech, delivered in front of school children and officials, allegedly incited hatred by targeting the Muslim community. The MLA reportedly stated that if Hindus become a minority in India, they would face a situation similar to that in Bangladesh. This remark has been criticized as an attempt to influence the minds of school children and is being interpreted by Shekar L as evidence of the MLA's mental instability.

Additionally, the MLA's dismissal of Mahatma Gandhi's struggle for independence by saying that the country did not gain freedom through the spinning wheel (Charkha) has been labeled as highly irresponsible. Shekar L questioned how Hindus, who constitute the majority of India's population, could possibly become a minority, and they view the speech as baseless and solely focused on hate-mongering.

There is also growing suspicion that the MLA may be using such divisive language to divert attention from the corruption allegations surrounding him, alleged Shekar L.