Trump threatens government shutdown over immigration policy
Washington, July 30 : US President Donald Trump has threatened to shut down the government if the Democratic Party does not cooperate on border security issues.
"I would be willing to 'shut down' government if the Democrats do not give us the votes for Border Security, which includes the Wall!
"Must get rid of Lottery, Catch and Release etc. and finally go to system of Immigration based on MERIT! We need great people coming into our Country!" Trump tweeted on Sunday.
The threat came on top of another fiery tweet posted earlier on the same day, which said: "Please understand, there are consequences when people cross our Border illegally, whether they have children or not -- and many are just using children for their own sinister purposes.
"Congress must act on fixing the DUMBEST and WORST immigration laws anywhere in the world! Vote 'R'," referring to Republicans, Xinhua news agency reported.
The tweets were in response to attacks on the US government's family separation policy, which saw thousands of minors separated from their parents who entered the US illegally.
The controversy that ensued the family separation policy caused many Republican lawmakers to distance themselves from Trump's tough immigration agenda.
It also stalled legislative progress in Congress for comprehensive immigration reform, which had been a major promise for his supporters during his 2016 campaign.
However, Trump's menacing tweets were rebuffed even by his own party members, who said "shutting down the government will not be helpful".
Congressman Steve Stivers, a Republican from Ohio, downplayed the possibility of a shutdown in a TV interview on Sunday, saying: "I think we're going to make sure we keep the government open."
The US federal government last shut down was over a spending bill when the Congress failed to reach consensus due to political fights.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
