Defending the suspension of 18 BJP MLAs by Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader, Mysuru district in-charge Minister H.C. Mahadevappa on Saturday stated that the Speaker had no choice but to take action after witnessing the unruly behavior of the MLAs.
The chaos erupted during discussions on allegations of honey-trapping in the House on Thursday.
Mr. Mahadevappa emphasised the need for a stringent national law to punish those involved in honey-trapping and character assassination.
“Honey-trapping is not confined to politics but has spread to other fields. It is a major conspiracy aimed at tarnishing individuals’ reputations. Those invading people’s privacy must face strict punishment,” he said.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Mahadevappa expressed shock at the scenes witnessed in the Assembly on Thursday. “In my 40-year-long political career, I have never seen such chaos. Parliamentary language was disregarded, and BJP members threw away democratic principles by barging into the Speaker’s chair, showing utter disrespect to the position,” he remarked.
When asked whether Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s supporters were being targeted within the Congress, the Minister dismissed the claims. “I do not think so,” he replied.
Responding to allegations by Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna that 48 prominent personalities had fallen victim to organised honey-trapping, Mr. Mahadevappa noted that both the Chief Minister and the Home Minister had already reacted to the issue. “A high-level inquiry has been ordered to uncover the truth. Let’s not speculate and let the investigation reveal those behind such acts,” he added.
When questioned about whether Mr. Siddaramaiah would present the next year’s Budget, Mr. Mahadevappa said, “Mr. Siddaramaiah is our Chief Minister and holds the Finance portfolio. Since the Congress government will be in power for another three years, he will undoubtedly present the Budget,” he said, dispelling any doubts on the leadership change.
Taking a dig at the BJP, Mr. Mahadevappa accused the party of spreading falsehoods about a possible change in leadership. “The BJP should set its house in order before commenting on others,” he said.
Published – March 22, 2025 07:36 pm IST
By
