Statement of former IPH Minister Ravinder Ravi, given recently in the budget session, has triggered protest among the Gorkha and Naga community. Ravi, who is a sitting BJP MlA from Dehra of Kangra constituency, during a debate on the population of monkeys in the State had said posting of Grokha and Naga regiments in the State could curb the population of monkeys and dogs as these are delicacies for them.
Enraged over the remarks, a large number of people from the Gorkha community protested, shouting slogans against the former Minister. Protest was led by the members of the Bhartiya Gorkha Parisangh. They also burnt the effigy of Ravi.
After protest, they submitted a memorandum to Speaker of assembly through the Deputy Commissioner seeking action.
“It is very painful and deceitful, that a member of the House gave such remarks for a particular community ignoring the consequences that how the people of that community would feel. He has insulted both the communities Nagas and Gorkha. He should tender an apology at the same place from where he made these remarks” said Bhupinder Singh Gurung, a prominent leader of the Sangh who represents Punjab and Himahcal.
Gorkha Sangh has also approached National President of BJP, Rajnath Singh and State president Satpal Satti seeking a strong action against the MlA.
Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh has requested the Speaker to expunge these remarks from the proceedings of the legislative Assembly and to take appropriate action against Ravi.
On April 5, Ravi had said during the debate in assembly that if Gorkha or Naga regiments are posted in Himachal from time to time, it will definitely have an impact on the population of monkeys.”
He claimed monkey was a delicacy for Gorkhas and Nagas. Ravi also said, “Black dogs are a favourite food of Gorkhas and this will help maintain ecological balance.”