Vijayapura: Taking exception to the statement of MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal that he would invoke Goonda Act against those who try to immerse Ganesha idols in ancient and historic Taj Bawadi, Former MLA and Yatnal’s bête noire, Appu Pattanashetty has wondered who Yatnal is to file case under Goonda Act against anybody.
“Is he is Deputy Commissioner or Superintendent of Police? Who is he to file a case under Goonda Act against anybody? The District Police knows it well which law should be imposed against whom. Yatnal should leave that matter to police,” he said.
Asserting that Yatnal himself showing Goonda nature by threatening people, Pattanashetty said that Yatnal should behave like an elected representative and not like anti-social elements.
On the demand of some pro-Hindu activists to allow them to immerse Ganesha idols in Taj Bawadi, he refuted the allegations stating that none of his supporters have made any such demand.
“Some people have made such a demand. They believe that since the water of Taj Bawadi is not being used for long, the District Administration can allow people to immerse the idols. It is the wish of some people, however the District Administration has not said anything officially on the demand. Moreover those who made demands did not issue any threat of going against the law if they are not allowed. All they have done is that they have submitted a memorandum. Let authorities reply and not MLA Yatnal as none has given a memorandum to Yantal,” he said.
With regard to the controversy surfaced after BJP leaders and pro-Hindu activists have announced to place the photo of Hindu icon V. D. Savarkar next to Ganesha idols during Ganesha Chaturthi, Pattanashetty said that their Ganesha Mahamandali has neither supported nor opposed the demand.
“Our Mahamandali has taken a neutral stand. Those who wish to place the picture, they can, and we will not say anything about it,” he said.
Pattanashetty however made it clear they have decided to celebrate the festival by celebrating 75th year of Indian Independence. We will honour those who have served the society, made achievements in different fields etc. to make the event meaningful and memorable,” he said.
Newly elected president of Mandali Srikant Shinde and others were present.
