Puttur: Congress worker Hakeem Kurnadka has alleged that Puttur MLA Ashok Rai sent Bajrang Dal workers to target him and claimed that an attempt was made to attack him during a press conference.
Speaking at a press conference, Hakeem alleged that Ashok Rai frequently associates with Bajrang Dal workers and maintains close ties with BJP leaders, while loyal Congress workers are being sidelined.
Hakeem said, “Puttur MLA Ashok Rai moves around with Bajrang Dal workers and has connections with BJP leaders. Loyal Congress workers have no value. Now, Bajrang Dal workers have been sent to kill me. If Ashok Rai contests the next election, I will contest against him. No one can intimidate me or silence my voice.”
He clarified that he does not seek personal confrontation with anyone but would continue to raise his voice against what he considers injustice.
“It is the responsibility of an elected representative to answer questions raised by the people. Threatening those who ask questions is not the way of democracy,” he said.
Hakeem alleges attempted assault
Hakeem alleged that on September 1, while he was conducting a press conference at the Puttur Press Bhavan, supporters of MLA Ashok Rai attempted to assault him.
He said journalists present at the venue intervened and brought the situation under control.
Hakeem further alleged that even after the press conference, the MLA arrived along with his supporters, creating a situation that could have led to a confrontation.
The allegations are claims made by Hakeem, and their veracity remains subject to investigation by the authorities.
Calls for impartial police probe
Describing the matter as serious, Hakeem urged the police to conduct an impartial and comprehensive investigation without coming under political pressure.
“I am not making these allegations out of personal enmity. As an ordinary citizen, I have every right to question and seek justice regarding the alleged attack and threats against me. The truth must be established through an investigation, and whoever is responsible must face legal action,” he said.
He urged the police to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident and establish what happened during and after the press conference.
Says elected representatives have greater responsibility
Hakeem said Ashok Rai is an elected representative and therefore carries a greater responsibility towards maintaining peace and law and order.
He stressed that elected representatives should ensure that political disagreements do not escalate into situations that could lead to conflict or disturb public peace.
Political differences are a natural part of democracy, Hakeem said, but argued that responding to differences through attacks, threats or confrontation is unacceptable.
“It is the responsibility of elected representatives to respond democratically to questions raised by the public and political opponents,” he said.
Hakeem challenges MLA over next election
Hakeem also stated that he would contest against Ashok Rai if the MLA decides to contest the next election.
He said he would not change his political position based on who is in power and maintained that threats or intimidation would not prevent him from expressing his views.
“I am an ordinary Congress worker. If the MLA cannot answer my questions, people should see how he will respond to even more serious questions that may be raised by the Opposition tomorrow,” he said.
Hakeem added that he did not seek personal confrontation with anyone but would continue raising issues concerning the public and speaking against injustice.
Reaffirms commitment to Congress
Hakeem also reaffirmed his association with the Congress party, stating that his connection with the party was longstanding and not motivated by the pursuit of power.
“My relationship with the Congress party is not something that started yesterday. I have worked for the party using my own earnings while engaging in social service and working among the people. I remain committed to the same principles. Congress yesterday, Congress tomorrow,” he said.
He maintained that he would not shift his political position depending on which party or leader was in power.
The allegations have added to political differences in the area. Hakeem has sought a detailed police investigation and said that those found responsible for any wrongdoing should face legal action.
The matter is expected to depend on the evidence gathered by the police and the findings of the investigation.