Daijiworld Media Network - Vijayapura (MS)
Vijayapura, Feb 28: Sri Rama Sene founder Pramod Muthalik, known for often stirring controversies with provocative statments, has said that he wants to contest elections on a BJP ticket from Belagavi, and has already met senior leaders of the party in this connection.
"I am interested in contesting on BJP ticket from Belagavi. In this context, I have already met all senior leaders of BJP and the concerned, and put forth my request," said Muthalik, speaking at a book release programme on Sri Raja Chathrapathi Shivaji organized by Sri Chathrapathi Shivaji foundation leader Kiran Kale.
Muthalik further said, "I have requested the BJP leaders to give me ticket in order to serve Hindutva and promote development. All the BJP leaders I have met so far have responded positively. The ticket is yet to be announced. I do not know when it will be done and whom it will be given to.
"I will not contest as an independent candidate if BJP does not give me a ticket. If they give me a ticket, I will work honestly. If not, I will work continue to work in my organization. If any BJP candidate wishes, I will work for them cent percent. I am expressing my support to BJP because of my adoration of Prime Minister Modi. I have not got BJP's membership so far. In coming days, if it is necessary I will get that also."
Muthalik launched a verbal attack on Congress leader Siddaramaiah and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on the issue of donation to Ram Mandir construction. "Both are former chief ministers. Their statements are childish. These statements are not fit for their status. There are 130 crore Ram Bhakts in the country. Both these CMs are insulting the devotees of Ram. They are insulting Ram in their attempt to criticise BJP and RSS. There is Ram in the name of Siddaramaiah. Give respect to Lord Ram for that sake at least," he said.
Responding to the issue of demand for reservation by various communities, Muthalik said, "Ambedkar had foreseen today's situation and had asked to give reservation only for 10 years. Now we are recalling Ambedkar. I have to do a study of the demands of various communities. Hindu society should be united. The law should be convenient to poor people."
Reacting to the statement given by Siddaramaiah on anti-cow slaughter bill and eating beef, Muthalik said, "Cow is not limited to any caste, party or organization. It is a matter that is related to the agriculturists of the country. Cow is not a animal to be revered. It is giving us rice to eat. Helping us economically. It is giving us manure and medicine. Cow is Kamadhenu. This is clearly stated in article 48 of the constitution. It is said that it is duty of citizens to protect the cattle that is needed for agriculture. It is not right on the part of Siddaramaiah to speak against the constitution. It is not right to speak with the intention of appeasing Muslims."