Congress Leaders Demand Apology from R. Ashoka Over Remarks on Coastal Karnataka
Seek documentary evidence for allegations, question Opposition Leader’s conduct
ಆಧಾರ ನೀಡಿ ಅಥವಾ ಕ್ಷಮೆಯಾಚಿಸಿ: ಆರ್. ಅಶೋಕ್ಗೆ ಕಾಂಗ್ರೆಸ್ ನಾಯಕರ ಸವಾಲು
Congress leaders have demanded that Karnataka Assembly Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka withdraw what they described as objectionable remarks concerning the culture, development and economic activities of coastal Karnataka and tender an unconditional apology to the people of Dakshina Kannada and the coastal region.
In a joint statement, KPCC General Secretary S. Manohar and Congress leaders A. Anand, Kushal Haruvegowda and Puttaraju challenged Ashoka to produce documentary evidence to substantiate his allegations. They said that if he has records supporting his claims, he should make them public and place them before the appropriate authorities.
₹32,000-crore development plan cited
The Congress leaders said the Karnataka government, under Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and the Council of Ministers, has been working on a special development plan for Dakshina Kannada and the coastal region, with proposed projects reportedly valued at around ₹32,000 crore. They also pointed to a special Cabinet meeting held to discuss the region’s development.
“Instead of questioning the government with facts and evidence, why ridicule initiatives aimed at the development of the coastal region?” the leaders asked, questioning whether such remarks reflected the responsibility expected from the Leader of the Opposition.
They alleged that Ashoka’s comments touched upon the region’s culture, local businesses and fishing community and demanded that he clarify his statements.
Challenge over mining, quarrying allegations
The Congress leaders also referred to allegations concerning mining and quarrying, including a claim of ₹1 crore allegedly being collected from individual operations. They challenged Ashoka to provide details and supporting documents to the competent authorities and file a formal complaint if he possesses such information.
“Serious allegations must be backed by evidence. Otherwise, the people have a right to ask why such claims are being made,” they said.
The leaders further questioned Ashoka’s role as Opposition Leader amid reported disagreements within the BJP over his functioning, asserting that the Opposition has a responsibility to scrutinise the government constructively and on the basis of facts.
They reiterated their demand that Ashoka withdraw any remarks perceived as insulting coastal Karnataka’s people, culture or economic activities and apologise to the people of Dakshina Kannada and the region.
