Udupi: BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna on December 14 alleged that Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader deliberately avoided attending a religious programme organised by Puttige Swamiji, fearing protests from party workers. Suvarna also strongly objected to remarks made by the Speaker during the recent Assembly session, stating that they undermined the dignity of the House and disrespected Hindu religious traditions.
Addressing the media in Udupi, Suvarna claimed that Speaker Khader chose not to attend the programme due to apprehensions of protests by BJP workers. “Our workers were prepared to show black flags and raise slogans. Fearing this, he did not attend the programme,” Suvarna alleged. He further claimed that Khader’s recent public remarks and conduct were politically motivated.
Allegation of political ambition
Suvarna alleged that Speaker Khader was aspiring for a ministerial berth in the event of a change in leadership at the state level. “Khader is hoping to become a minister if there is a change in the chief minister. By criticising MLAs who speak about Hindutva, he may be trying to attract the attention of the party high command,” he claimed.
The BJP MLA said such actions were inappropriate for a person holding a constitutional position like that of the Speaker, who is expected to remain impartial and rise above political considerations.
Objection to Speaker’s remarks in Assembly
Suvarna expressed strong dissatisfaction over the Speaker’s remarks during the recent session of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. He said he was unfairly interrupted while raising an important issue related to his constituency.
“I am an elected MLA, and I have every right to speak about my constituency and its problems. The question I raised seeking grants for the Udupi Paryaya was submitted 15 days in advance. It was a valid and listed question,” Suvarna said.
He explained that the Udupi Paryaya Mahotsava is a significant religious and cultural event, drawing devotees and visitors from across the country, and requires adequate government support for infrastructure and facilities.
‘Harikatha’ remark hurt sentiments, says Suvarna
According to Suvarna, while he was raising the issue in the House, the Speaker interrupted him and asked him to stop his “Harikatha” and get to the point. “He said members should not speak merely to appear on television. Out of respect for the Chair, I remained silent,” Suvarna said.
However, he took serious exception to what he described as a casual and dismissive reference to Harikatha. “The Speaker spoke lightly and made casual remarks about Harikatha, which is an integral part of our Hindu religious tradition. That is not right and has hurt sentiments,” he added.
Claims of selective targeting in Assembly
Suvarna rejected allegations that he indulged in irrelevant or prolonged discussions in the House. “I have never diverted the discussion. Many MLAs speak for one hour or more in the Assembly, yet no objection is raised. When I speak about Udupi, it suddenly becomes an issue,” he said.
He pointed out that Udupi is a Hindutva-oriented district with a strong cultural and religious identity. “Issues related to the development of the city and the Paryaya Mahotsava have been unfairly criticised. Speaking about Udupi and its needs should not be seen as a problem,” he said.
Demand for apology to people of Udupi
While reiterating his respect for the office of the Speaker, Suvarna said it was the Speaker’s responsibility to protect the dignity of the Chair. “I have shown restraint only out of respect for the post. But that does not mean such remarks should go unquestioned,” he said.
Demanding an apology, Suvarna stated, “UT Khader must apologise to the people of Udupi. Criticising an MLA for seeking grants for the Paryaya Mahotsava is completely wrong.”
Infrastructure issues cited
Suvarna highlighted the infrastructural challenges faced by Udupi in recent years. “Over the last three monsoons, we have witnessed record rainfall. Roads and drainage systems in Udupi city have been washed away. Despite this, no adequate grants running into several crore rupees have been released by the government,” he said.
He said people had elected him to represent their concerns in the Assembly and he would continue to raise issues related to development, religious events and public infrastructure without fear.
Conclusion
The remarks by Yashpal Suvarna have added to the growing political friction between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP in Karnataka. While the Speaker has not yet responded to the allegations, the controversy underscores the sensitivity surrounding religious issues, constituency development, and the expectation of neutrality from constitutional authorities. Suvarna maintained that he would persist in voicing the concerns of Udupi residents, irrespective of criticism.