Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Jan 10: "Sunil Kumar must immediately apologize for the language he used against the chief minister. The surrendered Naxalites have chosen a peaceful path, and the government has announced a rehabilitation package to help them lead responsible lives, not for any indulgence or leisure," said KPCC spokesperson Veronica Cornelio in a press statement.
Expressing her outrage, Veronica criticized Karkala MLA and former minister V. Sunil Kumar for labelling chief minister Siddaramaiah as a member of the 'Urban Naxal Core Committee'. She condemned his remarks, stating they reflect a deplorable mindset.
Highlighting instances of support extended to surrendered Naxalites by BJP-led governments, she pointed out that Union Home Minister Amit Shah himself welcomed 30 surrendered Naxalites in Chhattisgarh last month with tears of joy. Similarly, Maharashtra’s BJP government, under deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, provided Rs 41 lac assistance to a surrendered Naxal couple last year. "Why doesn't Sunil Kumar have the courage to label them as he did Siddaramaiah? Why did he not react similarly then?" she questioned.
Veronica criticized BJP leaders for their consistent opposition to peace efforts, stating, "While the civilized society appreciates the decision of Naxalites to abandon violence and join the mainstream, individuals like Sunil Kumar oppose such moves, which is deeply concerning."
She emphasized that surrendering Naxalites have the constitutional right to lead a life in the mainstream society. "The government's duty is to rehabilitate those who renounce violence and transform them into responsible citizens. Chief minister Siddaramaiah has fulfilled this duty, and BJP’s attempt to portray it as a crime is nothing but an old tactic," she said.
Veronica reiterated that the government's rehabilitation package is meant to help surrendered Naxalites rebuild their lives responsibly, not for any frivolity.
Demanding an immediate apology from Sunil Kumar for his remarks against the chief minister, she warned that the people of the state will deliver a befitting response if he fails to do so.