Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], August 14 (ANI): The Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R Ashoka, demanded that Chief Minister DK Shivakumar take action against state minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, who stated that he would not be able to participate in the Independence Day celebrations.
Speaking to reporters, he said, "Saturday is a sacred day for the country. We gained independence because of the sacrifices and martyrdom of lakhs of freedom fighters. We are all living peacefully and happily in a democracy. However, regarding the Independence Day celebrations in Vijayanagara district, Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan has written a letter to the Chief Minister."
"Freedom fighters lost their homes and property and went to jail. Many lost their lives. But this minister does not have time to participate in such an important programme. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has made such a person a minister," he added.
R Ashoka took out state Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, accusing him of "disrespecting" the Constitution by skipping an official government program. The BJP leader further demanded that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah take immediate disciplinary action against the Minister to prevent a breakdown in administrative discipline.
"This is an insult that Minister Zameer Ahmed has done to the country. After taking the oath under the Constitution, one must participate in such programmes. Doing this shows disrespect to the Constitution. This will not be good for the administration. The Chief Minister must take action against this minister. Otherwise, all ministers will do the same," he added.
Drawing a parallel to previous controversies, Ashoka alleged that the Congress government had already been lenient toward those who reportedly shouted "Pakistan Zindabad" slogans in the Vidhana Soudha.
"Earlier, those who shouted "Pakistan Zindabad" in the Vidhana Soudha still have not faced strict action. Now the minister has also shown disrespect to the country. If action is not taken against the minister, the people themselves will teach him a lesson", he said.
Zameer Ahmed Khan has been given the housing department in the latest Karnataka cabinet portfolio allocation. (ANI)
"Zameer Ahmed showed disrespect by deciding not to hoist tricolour, CM should take action": Karnataka LoP R Ashoka
