SHIVAMOGGA: Tension was palpable in the city when leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council K. S. Eshwarappa, whose controversial remarks about rape triggered widespread criticism, arrived to participate in ‘Kanakadasa Jayanti’ programme organized here on Saturday.
As soon as Mr.Eshwarappa rose to address the gathering, some Congress workers shouted slogans against him and tried to prevent him from speaking. In response, Mr. Eshwarappa too aired slogans: “Jai Jai Kanaka, Kanakadasarige Jayavagali,” leading to complete chaos.
Soon, the local police intervened and whisked the Congress workers away. Later, supporters of Mr. Eshwarappa staged a protest demanding action against local legislator K.B.Prasanna Kumar and district Congress president R. Prasanna Kumar, who they alleged, were mute spectators at the programme.
They also demanded an apology from the duo. Policemen stepped in and dispersed them.
Mr. Eshwarappa told the media: “I don’t want to comment on today’s incident during my speech. I have already clarified about my comments yesterday, so I do not want to make another statement on that issue.”
