Mangaluru: MLA U T Khader has been caught in the eye of the storm for his “fire” statement with regard to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, prompting leaders of fringe groups to ask for his resignation.
Dakshina Kannada district Congress committee had organised a protest meet against the CAA in the city on Tuesday, December 17. It was during this event that Khader stated that if the Union Government is not ready to withdraw the controversial Act, the people will set fire to Karnataka in the coming days.
His statement irked the fringe group leaders and they have been insisting that the MLA tender his resignation. Bajrang Dal leader Sharan Pumpwell, speaking to the media, said, that Khader should tender his resignation for his irresponsible statement. “Through his statement, he is indirectly inciting the people to indulge in violence,” he said.
Belthangady MLA Hareesh Poonja said that though the CAA has been approved in the Parliament, Khader has opposed the Act and provoked the people to oppose it through his controversial statement. “Being formerly in-charge of the Dakshina Kannada district, Khader should have some sense while addressing the public,” he said.
However, Khader clarified, on Wednesday, that he did not provoke anybody through his statement, but he had only cautioned the Union Government not to provoke violence in Karnataka.
It can be noted that MP Nalin Kumar Kateel was also caught up in controversy for his ‘fire’ statement two years ago. During a protest meeting held at Thokkottu, he had said that the whole district would be set in the fire if the culprits in a murder case would not be traced soon. Despite, a case has been registered against him in this regard, it can be recalled that he was acquitted from the case.
