Bengaluru, March 30 (NationPress) D.K. Suresh, a former Congress MP and sibling of Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, expressed on Monday that adopting a two-language policy is a commendable decision.

He also cautioned about a potential shortage of petroleum products and fertilizers in the upcoming months.

While speaking to journalists at his home in Bengaluru regarding the two-language initiative, he stated, “Mandating three languages for children hampers their learning capabilities and understanding. Therefore, the decision by educators is a positive one. It is essential for children to learn two languages mandatorily, while a third language should remain optional.”

In response to critiques from BJP leaders, he remarked, “Their sole objective is to oppose whatever the government implements. To appease their central leadership, they advocate a pro-Hindi stance. They should instead persuade their leaders to enhance the promotion of Kannada across all states.”

When questioned about whether the decision was politically motivated, given that Congress previously endorsed a three-language policy, he commented, “The context then was different. Presently, the emphasis is on quality, and effective learning can occur in two languages. Kannada will continue as the principal language, while the second language choice rests with parents and students.”

Addressing concerns that this decision might lead to confusion after a complete academic year, he said, “Numerous students struggle with the third language. Considering this, the government has made this choice.”

However, in light of the controversy surrounding the government's choice not to mandate Hindi as compulsory for Secondary School Leaving Certificate (Class 10) students, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that no decision regarding the two-language policy has been made yet and emphasized that learning Hindi is not opposed.

Suresh further expressed, “It is inappropriate to demand complimentary tickets. Those interested in attending matches should purchase tickets. This is the correct approach.”

When asked about the request for free IPL tickets for MLAs, he responded, “Those making such appeals are making a grave error. They should remember the kind of criticism and language used during the IPL tragedy. Tickets have always been available, but now they are being misused for propaganda. Even BJP MLAs have received IPL tickets. The IPL is not a national tournament; it is a commercial event. It is inappropriate for public representatives to focus excessively on such matters.”

Regarding discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, he stated, “The government has already sanctioned a new stadium at a site I proposed. I had recommended a stadium in Surya City. Bengaluru requires four stadiums in each direction. Besides Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and a football stadium, there are no other significant facilities. To foster sports engagement among the youth in a densely populated city, we must establish stadiums in all four directions.”

He noted that during his time as a Member of Parliament, he proposed reserving 100 acres in Surya City, which was later approved.

“I have conferred with Minister Zameer Ahmad Khan, Chairman Shivalingegowda, and MLA Shivanna. The cabinet has recently endorsed the project. A world-class stadium will be built on 50 to 60 acres. I have also urged the Deputy Chief Minister to construct a stadium in Shivaram Karanth Layout through BDA, where 40 acres have been reserved. Additionally, I will pursue discussions to allocate land for a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi,” he added.

Regarding the Prime Minister’s advice to brace for fuel-related challenges akin to the COVID period, he said, “The central government is cognizant of the situation. If this trend persists, it will have a significant impact. Price rises have already affected India and will likely escalate. Certain products may become scarce, driving prices up, while in other instances, prices are being inflated to exploit the situation.”

The Congress leader noted that the repercussions would extend beyond hotels to all imported goods.

“If the production of petroleum-dependent goods diminishes, prices will increase. As the monsoon approaches and agricultural activities ramp up, the demand for fertilizers will also be influenced. The government must be ready for this. Stocks may last for three months, but maintaining supplies for the entire season will be challenging,” Suresh remarked.

As a precaution, he advised minimizing excessive vehicle usage and mentioned that directives have been issued to milk unions to reduce gas consumption to below 55 percent. “If usage hits 100 percent, costs will surge by 30 percent, ultimately leading to price increases. We are part of essential commodities, and such challenges are anticipated. People should be vigilant from this point on,” he advised.

When asked if milk unions were currently facing issues, he stated, “There is no immediate problem. However, how do you define rising costs? Who should shoulder the burden? If I address this, it will be interpreted as a warning of a price rise. Instead, we should concentrate on the ground reality. With the monsoon nearing, farmers will commence cultivation, and both the government and the public must be alert to potential fertilizer shortages.”

In response to a question about Minister Zameer Ahmad Khan's discontent regarding developments surrounding the Davanagere South seat, he said, “He seems to be in good spirits. When did you observe any dissatisfaction? He is actively campaigning in Kerala, which indicates his demand.”

Regarding whether his absence from campaigning would affect results, he stated, “The Congress candidate in Davanagere is confident of victory. More than individual presence, the party has provided strong young leadership to the constituency. The seat was allocated to the family following the passing of a senior leader, and they will receive support in the future.”