Bengaluru: In the wake of Kannada litterateur Girish Karnad’s speech during Tipu Jayanti on November 10, that drew flak from all over the state, the veteran writer sought an apology on Wednesday, November 11.
During his speech, Karnad had said that Kempegowda was a good man, but he was not a freedom fighter. Whereas, Tipu Sultan was a true freedom fighter and hence, the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru should be renamed after him.
Addressing reporters on Wednesday at his residence in JP Nagar, the Jnanapeetha awardee said, “I did not make the statement with any wrong intention. However, if the people of Karnataka are hurt, I would like to apologize. I had only aired my opinion yesterday.”
Home Minister beckons
According to sources, newly appointed State Home Minister Dr G Parameshwar had called Karnad asking him to sort out the matter as it created much furor. This is said to have compelled Karnad to tender an apology.
Meanwhile, the Bengaluru BJP unit staged a protest at Malleshwaram Circle demanding action against Karnad for his ‘derogatory’ remark against Kempegowda.
