Ayanur questions silence of BJP leaders over Ravi’s remark

Ayanur Manjunath
| Photo Credit: file photo

Congress leader and former MP, Ayanur Manjunath, has questioned the silence of senior BJP leaders over BJP MLC C.T. Ravi’s alleged obscene remark in the Legislative Council.

At a press conference here on Monday, Mr. Manjunath said that instead of condemning his statement that demeaned the stature of the Legislative Council, the BJP had been offering him a grand welcome wherever he went. “The BJP leaders are treating him as a war hero,” he ridiculed.

Mr. Manjunath wanted to know why senior BJP leaders had not condemned his remarks.

“There is enough evidence to prove that he actually made the derogatory remark. Many people have watched the video clip of his statement. He should have apologised immediately for his conduct and tried to resolve the matter itself,” he felt.

Further, referring to the grand welcome Mr. Ravi received in his hometown, Chikkamagaluru, Mr. Manjunath said many ambulance vehicles were part of his escort. “The presence of ambulances seems to be symbolic. What else can represent better the sick mindset of Mr. Ravi?” he said.

Welcomed

Mr. Manjunath welcomed Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha chief Mohan Bhagwat’s recent statement that no one could become a leader of Hindus by raking up temple-mosque disputes.

“Mr. Bhagwat’s statement was timely and necessary. He has made this statement twice. I hope people who follow the RSS understand his statement,” Mr. Manjunath remarked.