Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Feb 19: Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna expressed strong outrage, alleging that the state government is attempting to cover up its failures by restricting the media inside Vidhana Soudha, which is regarded as the seat of power in the state.

Yashpal Suvarna stated that by curbing the media, considered the fourth pillar of democracy, the Siddaramaiah-led state government is trying to hide its administrative shortcomings.

According to him, the governance system in the state has completely collapsed amid confusion over a possible change in the chief minister’s position. At a time when MLAs are reportedly undertaking foreign trips in defiance of party high command directions, the government is allegedly attempting to conceal its instability by imposing restrictions on the media.

Yashpal Suvarna further said that chief minister Siddaramaiah, who often speaks about freedom of expression and constitutional values, is unable to face the media due to fear over allegations of corruption, transfer rackets, scams, and misconduct by ministers. Citing the proverb 'a guilty conscience needs no accuser', he alleged that the government has indirectly imposed an undeclared emergency on the media in the state.

Yashpal Suvarna stated that by restricting the media, the Siddaramaiah government has dealt a blow to democratic principles. He urged the state government to immediately withdraw its decision and provide free access to the media, the fourth pillar of democracy, in the state.