Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)
Udupi, Feb 18: Responding to SDPI's demand for his resignation, Udupi MLA Raghupati Bhat on Friday February 18 said that he was elected by the people of his constituency and only they had the right to seek his resignation.
Addressing a press meet, Bhat said, "There is no need for me to answer to criticism of outsiders. I do not hear anyone from my constituency talking ill about me. Let the people of my constituency seek my resignation giving suitable reason for their demand."
Bhat further said, "If there is any doubt, Muslim voters in my constituency can be contacted. I do not want any certificate from SDPI. I have never spoken anywhere about the traditions followed in a particular religion or any religion itself. I have asked the Muslim girl students to remove their Hijab only inside the classrooms.
"There is no point in giving answer to people who ignite fire and enjoy the damage. In 12 colleges of Udupi constituency none of the students have worn saffron shawls. We have not incited anyone," he said.
Responding to the issue of publicising the personal information of Muslim girl students of government college who approached the court, Bhat said, "We have not released any personal information of the six girl students. Investigation is being done. This is an emotional issue. There is a possibility that the court might announce its verdict in a week’s time. We will welcome those 12 Muslim girl students to the college. We are also concerned that their education is being hampered. But the dress code needs to be followed. Children are being used as pawns for political game. Education of children is of utmost importance."
On the rumours of former MLA Pramod Madhwaraj joining BJP, Raghupati Bhat said, "I do not have any information in this regard. No one has asked my opinion in this respect. If he is willing to join, we welcome him. If he joins, we will have more power. Earlier, I had opposed as there was election. But now I do not have any fear. I will have a discussion with him when I get to meet him.
"We will be happy if our party gets strengthened. I will follow the instructions of my party. I have proved it. When the party gave ticket to others I have worked sincerely. Now the gate is open. Earlier also it was not closed. Our opinion was that if Madhwaraj wants, let him join and work for two or three years for the party."
City BJP president Mahesh Takur and rural BJP president Veena Nayak were present.