BJP legislator lashes out at K’taka govt over call to boycott Muslim jewellers

Bangalore:  Member of Karnataka Legislative Council AH Vishwanath slammed chief minister Basavaraj Bommai-led state government for not putting an end to “extra-constitutional forces” running riot in the state.His remarks came a day after right-wing group Sri Rama Sene chief Pramod Muthalik gave a call to boycott Muslim jewellers on Akshaya Tritiya.

Lashing out at the Karnataka government, the legislator asked, “Is this Muthalik’s government? An RSS or VHP government?” He claimed that “(The) government should be for the welfare of the people.” And enquired, “Who is running this government? Is Muthalik running this government?” Seeking CM’s intervention Vishwanath said, “This is an insult to democracy and state. Who gave them powers? The chief minister should intervene and put an end to all this and should put administration back on track.” Hindustan Times quoted Vishwanath as saying.

Suggesting that the CM should not allow people like Muthalik to polarise the population, the Upper House member of the state legislature warned, “We have a lot of regard for Basavaraj Bommai. But if you give those (right-wing) groups opportunities. They (right-wing groups) have not faced any elections or held any administrative post but have only survived by disturbing peace of society and these extra constitutional forces are working in the state. Who should be shameful?”