Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Apr 25: "BJP leaders are systematically hoodwinking the people against those who speak the truth and such people emerge as great personalities. Is Amith Shah’s qualified enough to develop the nation? How intelligent is he? Has he implemented any new scientific or thoughtful programmes? These BJP leaders are experts in deceiving others in order to win elections and they are good at foul play," said multilingual actor and rational thinker Prakash Rai during the 127th birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambendkar. He spoke on the slogan 'Protect Constitution - Save nation'.
The huge convention was organised on Tuesday April 24 by Karnataka Dalit Sangarsha Samiti Okkoota, Udupi district and Dalita Svabhimani Horata Samiti Udupi district in
association with Minority Muslim and Christian organisations held at Open Theatre, Bhujanga Park Ajjarkad here.
Rai further went on to say, "BJP meetings are conducted only after union ministers visit Karnataka. Where is the self esteem of the Kannadigas? Some BJP leaders say he
will set the district on fire in the name of religion, but we will use that spark to light up our lamp which will provide us light to move ahead. The kind of
aggression BJP leaders possess is what even the sun lacks.
"Dr B R Ambendkar idols are locked up in cages. We are here to protest in order to save our constitution. Hindu religion and Hindutva have different definitions.
"I once liked saffron as Swami Vivekananda used to wear clothes of that colour, but now the colour has taken on a different meaning in terms of BJP activities.
"How do seers get involved in pragmatic issues? Are they spokespersons for Hinduism? If a person protests against violence occurring in the nation, they will immediately begin investigating his family background and questions about caste arise.
"They will eradicate minor communities. This being the case, how can they be religious thinkers? Religion is necessary for growth of a human and for acquiring prosperity. All citizens have rights."
"Commenting on Shah's blunder in a statement to the press he said, "With communalism on the tip of their tongue, truth is being revealed.
"The peace of the nation must not be disturbed, but a few powers are trying to create disturbance in society. How can I leave power in such hands?
"Women equality bill is not yet passed by the government. Implementing politics in the name of religion is absolutely wrong? For instance, the whole of Pakistan is converted as one religion. That is why people are sufferring from poverty.
"These days, we see that glorification of murders happening in our country. Death has no value for these kind of people who talk falsely about humanity.
"If BJP comes to power, it means our nation is at threat. Let us go from house to house without any trace of discrimination of caste and religion. Let us hug one another with love so that it will enable our nation to get onto the right path."
State convener of DSS (Ambedkar's ideologies) Mavalli Shankar inaugurated the procession.
The procession commenced from Board High School onto the major roads of the city.
Udupi church priest William Martis presided over the programme.
A copy of 'Nanu Gowri' newspaper was released by Mavalli Shankar.
Addressing the gathering, he said, “We must cast our vote on May 12 to put a stop to the rebellion emerging in the state. It is an important election which will change the image of our country. The media is highlighting Modi as a saviour and a strong leader of this nation, but is protecting robbers who are living outside the country without any fear.
“The government of India is controlling books exposing truth. It is suppressing the voice of fighters. A new history has to be created in the country. Some esteemed seers are dividing religions in the name of Dharma Samsad. It is better that they sit quietly by eating cashew and grapes, instead of interfering in political and communal matters. Some seers instigate communal violence by advising people to use weapon for self defense.
“Modi kept quiet in Vemula’s case. Instead of investigation, they started to look for his caste. He is even silent against violence on women which includes minor girls,” he said.
Mavalli Shankar urged the public to support secular parties to protect democracy in the country.
G Rajashekhar of Komu Sauharda Vedike welcomed the gathering.
Shyamraj Birthi, president of DSS Horata Samithi, district convener, K L Ashok, chief secretary of Komu Sauaharda Vedike, and Yasin Malpe, district president of Muslim Okkoota were present.
Following the program, another protest meet 'Walk with lights' by holding candles was held by Muslims Okkoota condemning Kathua rape and murder case and Unao incident at the same venue.
Noted writer Vaidehi and other leaders were present.