BJP's Karnataka Unit Condemns Police Treatment of MLC Ravi as 'Terrorist'

Belagavi, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP fiercely criticized the state administration and law enforcement on Saturday for the poor treatment and arrest of MLC C.T. Ravi over his 'offensive' comments aimed at Minister for Women and Child Welfare Laxmi Hebbalkar.

R Ashoka, the opposition leader, spoke to the media and claimed that Ravi was treated like a terrorist by the police.

He condemned the state government, stating, “If a public representative is treated this way, think about the condition of BJP workers and Hindu activists under the Congress regime. Karnataka is becoming a mini–Pakistan.”

He further accused the police of being manipulated by the state government.

“The police have subjected C.T. Ravi to torture throughout the night, taking him to 10 taluks. He was physically assaulted by law enforcement. The government has committed an unforgivable offense,” he asserted.

“The council chairman has already ruled on C.T. Ravi's alleged use of foul language, stating there is no record of such behavior,” Ashoka added.

He issued a warning, saying that a shift in power is imminent, and similar incidents will occur again in the state.

Conversely, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar criticized C.T. Ravi for his derogatory language, labeling him a 'serial abuser'.

While speaking to reporters in Belagavi, he remarked, “This isn’t the first instance of C.T. Ravi using vile language. He has a history of hurling insults at CM Siddaramaiah.”

When questioned about Ravi's arrest, he responded, “Previously, he referred to CM Siddaramaiah as Sidramulla Khan. He has consistently used abusive language against our leaders. Is this the culture of Chikkamagaluru? Is this India’s culture? Or is it the BJP’s culture? I’ve never encountered such a culture in Chikkamagaluru district. He must be the only individual from the district with such a deplorable culture.”

“During a discussion in the House regarding the Union Home Minister insulting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, C.T. Ravi interrupted and called Rahul Gandhi a 'drug addict'. When Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar defended her party leader, he repeatedly referred to her as a 'prostitute'. Is it wrong for us to defend our leaders as BJP members do for theirs? Can he use such offensive language?” he questioned.

“He used that term a dozen times. The media must treat this matter seriously. If you lack evidence, I can provide it. This occurred when I entered the Legislative Assembly after concluding the proceedings in the Legislative Council,” he explained.

When asked if Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti could have acted had there been evidence, he stated, “He is a senior leader whom I respect, but his handling of this situation is disappointing. He should safeguard everyone in the House, regardless of party affiliation. An investigation should have been conducted. If Lakshmi Hebbalkar was in the wrong, he should have addressed that. However, it is incorrect for him to summon both parties and take a statement.”

mka/mr