Belagavi, 17 Dec

The Opposition BJP and JD(S) on Wednesday accused the ruling Congress in Karnataka of being “irresponsible” and insulting the Legislative Council by skipping proceedings to participate in a protest, leading to disruption during the Winter Session in Belagavi.

When the House assembled for the day, treasury benches were largely vacant, with Minister Satish Jarkiholi the only government representative present. This triggered sharp protests from opposition members, who said the government had disrespected the House and the people of the state, particularly those from north Karnataka, whose issues are scheduled for discussion during the session.

Leader of Opposition Chalavadi Narayanaswamy questioned the government’s ethics, asking how justice could be done to north Karnataka when ministers and the Leader of the House were absent. JD(S) MLC Saravana said the opposition had sought an extension of the session by a week to discuss regional issues, but the government’s absence made it impossible to raise questions.

Narayanaswamy noted that around Rs 30 crore of public money is spent on the session and accused the government of wasting time on “trivial” protests. BJP MLC Bharathi Shetty and opposition chief whip N Ravi Kumar termed the conduct a betrayal of north Karnataka and an insult to the House and the Chair.

JD(S) MLC Bhojegowda said the government had every right to protest but should not do so during House hours. BJP and JD(S) members later announced a boycott and staged a walkout.

Defending the government, Minister Ramalinga Reddy said ministers were attending a protest, adding that even the Prime Minister skips Parliament at times. His remarks triggered chaos, forcing Deputy Chairman MK Pranesh to adjourn the House.