From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Aug 19: Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President D K Shivakumar on Friday lambasted the Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government for not allowing the Congress party to organise the birthday celebrations of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and former Chief Minister D Devaraj Urs in the Ambedkar Bhavan in Bengaluru.

"Both Rajiv Gandhi and Devaraj Urs are great leaders who have served and contributed a lot for the country. We wanted to observe their birthday celebrations in Ambedkar Bhavan on behalf of the party. But the officials have denied the use of the Ambedkar Bhavan ostensibly because of the Covid situation and not to organise political functions," he said addressing a function in the KPCC office in Bengaluru.

Shivakumar said the Congress party has no problems in honouring the restrictions in view of the Covid pandemic situation. "But are there double standards for the Congress and the ruling BJP?," he asked and wondered how the state government allowed a public reception to newly appointed union minister of state for chemicals and fertilisers Bhagawanth Khooba when he visited his home district of Yadgir and even firing in the air. All government officials were present at the venue but only constables have been suspended.

"I salute the transparent administration in the State," he said sarcastically and pointed out that the newly appointed union ministers are visiting the districts in the guise of Jan Ashirwad Yatras. "How is this allowed?", he wanted to know.

The State Congress Chief said the people expected changes when a person who served as the home minister becomes the chief minister but what is happening now. "If this continues, there will be protests against the police and officials and it might lead to trouble," he cautioned.

Shivakumar said the party honours Rajiv Gandhi and Devaraj Urs and recalls their contribution. Varamahalakshmi festival as well as Moharrum festival are also being observed, he said extending his greetings to all sections of people.

Criticising the mishandling of the Covid pandemic situation by BJP in the country and the State, the KPCC Chief said the BJP regimes have failed on fronts. They could not ensure oxygen, medicines and treatments or beds and has made life miserable for the people, he said.

He asked the party workers and leaders to visit the houses of the people in their respective constituencies and collect details of the Covid situation. "We will demand a death audit to know the actual situation and fight to ensure that all the affected people, especially the dependents of those who died due to Covid were provided with compensation during the ensuing legislature session," he added.