BENGALURU: Describing the drubbing for Congress in Assembly polls in five states as a “wakeup call”, KPCC chief Dr G Parameshwar said the state government should strive to meet the hopes and aspirations of people over the next two years.
He told media here on Thursday that of late, the mindset of people had changed and they were supporting regional parties than national parties in Assembly polls, hoping that such parties would fulfill their demands. The results of polls held in five states indicate the beginning of a new era. "It is a lesson for us also. I did not know how voters of Karnataka will give their verdict in 2018 Assembly polls. We have to take serious note of it, and work hard in the next two years without committing any mistakes," he added.
He said the Congress lost in four states but won in Puducherry. All India Congress Committee leaders would identify factors which resulted in defeat of the party in West Bengal, Kerala, TN and Assam. The party had endured such ups and downs in the past. Efforts would be made to win back the confidence of people. At the same time, the BJP had not gained much in those states except capturing power in Assam. Distancing himself from MLC V S Ugrappa's statement against the Governor, Dr Parameshwar said it was the opinion of Mr Ugrappa and had nothing to do with the party. The Governor had every right to return Bills to the government, but it was the duty of the government to make changes sought by the Governor and return it to him for his assent.
Anjaneya slammed for remark
Taking social welfare minister H Anjaneya to task for comparing a few private institutions to 'brothels', Dr Parameshwar said such a statement was 'uncalled' for since many institutions were doing yeomen service to society. "I have written to the minister asking him to desist from making such derogatory remarks against any individual/organisation as it will tarnish party’s image. When elections to the Council from graduates' and teachers' constituencies are round the corner, such statements would affect the party, " he added.
