Dharwad: KPCC president B.K. Hariprasad has rejected Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy’s allegation that the Congress funded protests organised by Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP), asserting that providing legal assistance and support to people fighting for their rights cannot be equated with funding a protest.
Speaking to reporters in Dharwad, Hariprasad questioned who would help secure the release of people, including children, if they were jailed unnecessarily or unlawfully. He also asked whether those in custody could afford to pay legal fees.
“When we take part in a struggle carrying the national flag, we provide the necessary legal aid and support. Can paying a lawyer’s fees or covering the cost of stitching a Tricolour be called funding?” he asked.
Distinguishing legal assistance from financial support for an organisation or protest, Hariprasad said the Congress would continue to stand with those fighting to protect the Constitution and their rights.
He also remarked that people who accumulate wealth through corruption and bribery were more likely to be preoccupied with calculations about money.
Responds to Priyank Kharge’s remark
Responding to a remark by Minister Priyank Kharge that CJP and the Congress were one and the same, Hariprasad said his position was to support people fighting for their rights.
He maintained that those engaged in struggles to protect their rights were considered allies in that cause.
Seeks completion of sting operation probe
Asked about the investigation into the alleged sting operation, Hariprasad declined to comment in detail, saying the inquiry was still underway.
“Let the investigation take place first. Afterward, I will discuss whether a high-level inquiry is necessary,” he said.
He also questioned why demands were being made specifically for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, rather than investigations by agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) or the Income Tax Department.
Hariprasad said the public had not expected politics to reach this level and called for an end to the controversy. He added that the outcome of the ongoing investigation should be awaited before further conclusions were drawn.
