Karnataka BJP Demonstrates Against Suspension of 18 MLAs, Calls for Immediate Reinstatement
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Synopsis
On April 2, 2023, the Karnataka BJP protested at Vidhana Soudha against the suspension of 18 MLAs by the state government for six months. The party demanded immediate revocation of the suspensions, criticizing Speaker U.T. Khader's decision and raising concerns over democracy and the treatment of elected representatives.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka BJP protests suspension of 18 MLAs.
- Leaders criticize Speaker U.T. Khader for unjust actions.
- Calls for immediate revocation of suspensions.
- Concerns raised about democracy and representation.
- Protest against rising prices and government policies.
Bengaluru, April 2 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP organized a demonstration on Wednesday at the Vidhana Soudha grounds in response to the state government's decision to suspend 18 MLAs for a period of six months. The party is calling for the immediate reversal of this suspension.
The protest took place in front of the statue of former Chief Minister, the late Kengal Hanumanthaiah, with numerous prominent BJP leaders in attendance, including the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, R. Ashoka, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, and BJP state President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, alongside various MLAs and MLCs.
The leaders expressed strong disapproval of Speaker U.T. Khader for his decision to suspend the MLAs.
On March 21, a significant event occurred when 18 BJP MLAs were suspended from the Karnataka Legislative Assembly for six months, effective immediately, due to allegations of disrespect towards the Speaker's Chair and for throwing torn copies of a Bill at him.
During a media interaction on Wednesday, R. Ashoka remarked, “The Karnataka Speaker, U.T. Khader, has unlawfully suspended 18 BJP MLAs. We are protesting this injustice. We are elected representatives, not appointed members. They have no authority to suspend us. Our protest in the Assembly was for justice against the 4 percent Muslim quota.”
Ashoka heavily criticized Speaker U.T. Khader for his actions, referencing prior incidents of violence and misbehavior within the Assembly.
He stated, “In prior instances, former Speaker Yogish Bhat from Mangaluru was assaulted with a microphone. Former Deputy Speaker Dharme Gowda faced humiliation which led to tragic consequences. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself has previously resorted to violence, including snatching a police commissioner’s badge and even kicking the Assembly door. We will persist with our rightful protest and will also bring this matter to the Governor’s attention.”
Commenting on the suspension of the 18 BJP MLAs, Ashoka posed the question, “You have suspended our 18 legislators. In contrast, when the Assembly was not in session, the Speaker was seen sitting in his chair posing for photographs with relatives and religious leaders. Is this acceptable? Is this what democracy looks like? Who grants him such power?”
He further accused the Speaker of manipulating the proceedings related to the 4 percent Muslim reservation Bill. “The Speaker's role should not be influenced by religion, caste, or party affiliation. However, Speaker Khader's behavior raises questions,” Ashoka criticized.
Addressing the issue of rising prices of goods and services, Ashoka pointed out that he had previously warned during the budget session about the Congress-led government’s plans to increase prices throughout the year. “Within a month, they have begun raising fuel prices and other essential commodities. Soon, they will hike stamp duty and impose a garbage cess,” he asserted.
B.Y. Vijayendra mentioned, “I have received information that Speaker U.T. Khader is currently traveling. We will present a memorandum to a senior official at his office in Vidhana Soudha. The situation is clear. The Speaker’s decision to suspend 18 BJP MLAs, who were peacefully protesting on the Assembly floor, is unjust. This six-month suspension, which also bars them from attending committee meetings, is an unprecedented and intolerable action.”
“What nonsense is this?” Vijayendra asked.
“We respect the Speaker, but he should not adopt an unconstitutional position. He must not act as a puppet of the Congress party. We demand that he unconditionally lift the suspension of all 18 BJP MLAs,” he insisted.
He also indicated that until the suspension is revoked, BJP MLAs and MLCs will refuse to participate in committee meetings.
Speaker U.T. Khader is perceived as acting in favor of the ruling party and making unconstitutional choices to appease the Chief Minister. “The Speaker had earlier mentioned that the suspension would be lifted. What is he waiting for?” Vijayendra queried.
In his criticism of the state government, Vijayendra remarked, “The Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is exhibiting arrogance. I use the term ‘arrogance’ because while the BJP is protesting against rising prices, last night (Tuesday), the Siddaramaiah-led government opted to increase diesel prices by Rs 2. This clearly displays their disregard for the public.”
“The government believes that because they have announced their ‘guarantees,’ the populace is content. I challenge the Chief Minister and his ministers to step outside their offices in Bengaluru and tour the state. Only then will they comprehend the struggles faced by ordinary citizens,” Vijayendra concluded.
“I urge Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to show some compassion for the common individual and reverse these price increases,” he demanded.
