The Karnataka Government is firm on its decision that it would not allow VHP international president Praveen Togadia’s entry into Bengaluru to attend the 'Virat Hindu Samajotsav'. Angry BJP members created ruckus over the issue and stalled the proceedings of both the Houses of Karnataka legislature on Wednesday.
The BJP members trooped into the well of the House shouting slogans against the Government. The Chief Minister replied that the Government will not allow forces which would disrupt the peace and harmony of the State. When the members led by Opposition leader in the legislative Assembly Jagadish Shettar continued their dharna even after two adjournments before lunch, the Speaker adjourned the House for the day.
Duel between the Treasury Bench and the BJP was witnessed in both the Houses as the members indulged in attacking each other. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the ban and said his Government was not differentiating whether one belongs to minority community or upper class. Permission will not be given to those who want to make provocative speech and sow communal seed in the society. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said there was “no question” of allowing forces that would disturb communal harmony in the State.
BJP member Ashok contended that Togadia had toured other parts of the State recently and made speeches but there was no law and order problem. Home Minister KJ George in a statement said that the ban was imposed to maintain law and order. Togadia was also banned from participating in any function or making provocative speech. He added there were 19 criminal cases pending in various courts in the country against Togadia and four cases pending in Karnataka and hence ban was imposed to maintain law and order.
Commissioner of Police MN Reddi on Tuesday announced ban on the entry of Togadia from February 5 to 11. Togadia was supposed to participate in the 'Virat Hindu Samajotsav' organised by the right-wing organisation in the city on February 8.