Karnataka BJP Criticizes Suspension of MLAs Over Honey Trap Case
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Karnataka BJP condemns the suspension of its MLAs for demanding justice regarding a honey trap case linked to Minister K.N. Rajanna. Opposition Leader R. Ashoka and BJP leaders argue that the suspensions reflect Congress's malicious intent and an anti-democratic move.
Key Takeaways
- BJP MLAs demand justice in honey trap case.
- Opposition Leader criticizes Congress for suspending MLAs.
- Claims of anti-democratic actions by the Speaker.
- Call for judicial inquiry into the scandal.
- BJP asserts the scandal is a national issue.
Bengaluru, March 21 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has criticized the Congress-led administration for suspending 18 of its MLAs, claiming the suspensions were a result of their demand for justice in the honey trap case involving Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna.
The suspension of MLAs advocating for justice is absolutely condemnable. This showcases the malicious intent of the Congress party, stated Opposition Leader R. Ashoka, voicing his discontent.
In remarks made to journalists outside the Assembly, he noted that when Minister Rajanna referred to the honey trap scandal during Assembly proceedings, neither the Chief Minister nor other Congress ministers deemed it inappropriate or offensive. Previously, Congress leaders had made a fuss over legislators using mobile devices, but now they turn a blind eye to the honey trap issue.
“We have called for a judicial inquiry to maintain the dignity of the Assembly. Despite claims that the honey trap scandal implicated members from their own party, the government has remained silent,” he alleged.
BJP MLAs have been demanding justice. “How can it be justified for Speaker U.T. Khader to assault them with a mace? With what face do the ministers enter the Assembly? Suspending 18 MLAs is unjust. We did not engage in any misconduct towards the Speaker; we merely sought justice. We did not anticipate this from the Speaker. This exemplifies Congress’ malicious policy, willing to go to any lengths,” he asserted.
“We vehemently condemn the suspension of the MLAs. This is an affront to the Assembly. Is calling for a judicial inquiry categorized as hooliganism? The Speaker is behaving as an agent of the Congress party,” he remarked.
BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra described the Speaker's decision to suspend 18 BJP MLAs as an anti-democratic action.
Addressing the press on Friday, he pointed out that senior minister Rajanna admitted in the Assembly that he had fallen victim to a honey trap, further asserting that over 48 politicians state-wide and nationally had experienced similar traps. He emphasized that the Chief Minister, as the leader of the House, was responsible for safeguarding the minister, and that the Speaker held the duty to uphold the Assembly's dignity.
He remarked that all 224 MLAs have now been stained by this matter. “The Speaker, who should protect these 224 MLAs, has instead expelled us when we, as the opposition, stood up for justice. This is utterly unacceptable,” he said.
Vijayendra criticized the Chief Minister for neglecting to ensure the safety of his ministers. “It was your duty to protect them. Yet, when we protested for their safety, you expelled our MLAs from the Assembly. This is intolerable,” he objected.
He further alleged that the dignity of legislators has been compromised before the nation. “Congress is intoxicated with power. The party is rife with corruption, and the struggle for the Chief Minister's post has led to ministers and MLAs being abandoned by their own government,” he remarked.
He questioned whether the Chief Minister had the fortitude to defend Dalit and Scheduled Caste ministers, stating, “When you were the Chief Minister previously, Muslim rioters torched the residence of Dalit MLA Akhanda Srinivasa Murthy. Yet, at that time, you did not step forward to protect him.”
The BJP leader asserted that history is repeating itself, with the government showing no concern for Dalits or Scheduled Caste communities. “The Chief Minister is solely focused on appeasing Muslims. If he cannot protect legislators and ministers in the Assembly, should he remain in his position?” he queried.
He further demanded an investigation into the events in the Assembly, asking, “Who submitted the note yesterday? Let there be a thorough inquiry.” The BJP and JD(S) condemned this anti-democratic action and stated they would approach the Governor regarding the issue.
Vijayendra accused the Chief Minister of failing to defend his own ministers, denouncing it as a murder of democracy. “The Chief Minister’s actions are dubious. The honey trap controversy involving Karnataka’s ministers has escalated into a matter of national discourse,” he stated.
He highlighted that Minister Satish Jarkiholi himself recognized the scandal's authenticity. “The Chief Minister should have mandated the disclosure of the names of the MLAs and ministers entwined in the honey trap. He should have shown the courage to initiate an investigation. Yet, he has failed to do so,” Vijayendra challenged.
In a significant development, 18 BJP MLAs were suspended for six months from the Karnataka Legislative Assembly effective immediately, on allegations of disrespecting the Speaker’s Chair on Friday.
The suspensions followed a disruption of proceedings while protesting in the Well of the House, demanding a judicial or CBI probe into the alleged honey trap attempt involving Minister for Cooperation, K.N. Rajanna.
