Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal (MS)

Bantwal, Dec 9: Indira Canteen in the town which had already entagled in many controversies was witness to a heated verbal duel between two major political parties during its inauguration.

During the inaugural event on Sunday, December 9, peoples representatives from both BJP and Congress exchanged words and even went to the extent of slight physical push and nudge. Chandrashekhar, sub-inspector of town police station had written a letter to tahsildar urging that the inauguration should be done in accordance with the protocol as there is a chance of clash.

The leaders of BJP party had complained to the police through the tahsildar that former minister B Ramanath Rai should not attend the function. This move of BJP was questioned by the Congress leaders, which led to the verbal duel among the leaders as well as their supporters.

During the inauguration of the canteen by incharge minister U T Khader, this issue went out of control to the extent of pushing and nudging between the local MLA and a member of zilla panchayat. As this took place in the presence of MP, ministers and officials, Rajesh Naik, MLA from BJP staged a walkout accusing that clash is creted during a government function.

Supporters of both Congress and BJP condemned the leaders of the rival parties. A tense situation prevailed for sometime on the spot. Later due to the mediation of police it was brought under control.

U T Khader regrets the incident

In charge minister, U T Khader gave a statement regarding the unruly scenes that were observed during the inauguration of the India canteen in the town and said, "This programme should have happened in unity. Some particular group has instigated the unruly behaviour. I sincerely ask apologies from the people of Dakshina Kannada district. These kinds of minor issues take place. Let us not blow it out of proportion. I regret the same."