SC verdict on disqualified MLAs has no meaning: Kumaraswamy
Bengaluru, Nov 13: Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy claimed on Wednesday the Supreme Court's verdict on the disqualified MLAs "has no meaning".
"On the one hand upholding the disqualification and on the other, allowing them to contest the election...," he told reporters.
The apex court upheld the disqualification of 17 Congress-JD(S) MLAs on orders of the then Speaker but paved the way for them to contest the December 5 bypolls for 15 seats.
The court struck down the portion of the order of then Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar by which the legislators were disqualified till the end of the term of the 15th Karnataka Assembly.
"Without giving power to the anti-defection law, we pat our back saying that we have introduced the law. What is there in the anti-defection law? To prohibit them (public representatives) from arbitrary acts of resigning whenever they want and can be easily influenced," Kumaraswamysaid.
"The way you are encouraging, your decision has no meaning," Kumaraswamy said.
"If at all the democracy of the country has to survive, some degree of discipline should be displayed. There is no meaning if the anti-defection law is not respected," he said.
Asked whether there was any possibility of "compromising" with the BJP, Kumaraswamy said there was no need for him to do so.
He accused Congress leader and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of creating such a narrative about the JD(S).
"When 2018 assembly elections were held, he asked Rahul Gandhi to announce that the JD(S) is the B-team of BJP.
The same card he wants to play again. This time it will not work,"he said.
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West Asia situation 'worrisome', having adverse impact on economy, people: PM Modi in LS
New Delhi (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday termed the prevailing situation in West Asia “worrisome” as it is having a very adverse impact on the global economy and the livelihoods of people.
Making a statement on the prevailing situation in West Asia in the Lok Sabha, Modi also said that the security of Indians has been the government's biggest priority in times of conflict, and the Centre is sensitive, vigilant and also ready to extend every assistance.
“The current situation in West Asia is worrisome. This crisis has been going on for more than three weeks, having a very adverse impact on the global economy and on people's lives. The entire world is urging all parties to resolve this crisis as quickly as possible," Modi said.
He also said that cargo movement through the Strait of Hormuz has been a challenge from the beginning of the war, yet the government is ensuring that gas and fuel supplies remain the least affected.
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"We all know that India imports 60 per cent of its LPG needs. Due to uncertain supply, the government is prioritising domestic supply. LPG production in the country is also being increased,” he said.
The prime minister also said the conflict has created unexpected challenges, including economic, humanitarian and those related to national security.
“The countries affected by the conflict share extensive trade relations with India. The region fulfils a significant portion of our crude oil and gas requirements. It is also important because around 1 crore Indians live and work there," he said.
It is essential that a unanimous and united voice on this crisis reaches the world from Parliament, he said.
Modi also said that since the conflict began, every Indian in the affected areas has been provided with necessary assistance.
“I have spoken with most of the heads of state in West Asia over the phone in two rounds. And they have all assured the safety of Indians,” he said.
Unfortunately, the prime minister said, some people have lost their lives, and some have been injured in the conflict.
Help is being provided to the affected families, Modi said.
