Bengaluru: Karnataka Leader of Opposition R Ashoka has announced a 170-km padayatra from Raichur to Ballari from September 1, demanding the resignation of Minister B Nagendra over allegations linked to the Valmiki Development Corporation scam.
Addressing a press conference, Ashoka accused the Congress government of abruptly cancelling the Assembly session soon after the BJP announced a day-and-night protest seeking Nagendra’s resignation.
Ashoka alleged that the session was cancelled to shield the minister and claimed the government had avoided discussions on several issues despite the BJP being prepared with documents.
The BJP had planned to raise the drought situation, alleged illegal NICE toll collection, KPSC recruitment irregularities, Bengaluru garbage tenders, the tunnel road project and reduction in ration cards, among other matters, he said.
Recalling the previous BJP government, Ashoka said that ministers facing serious allegations had resigned and the Assembly had continued its proceedings. He questioned why similar action was not being taken against Nagendra over allegations involving funds meant for the Dalit community.
The padayatra will begin at Guragunta in Raichur district on September 1 and conclude in Ballari after covering around 170 km. Ashoka said he would lead the march, which will focus primarily on the demand for Nagendra’s resignation.
He also claimed that the government cancelled the session because it lacked confidence in defending the minister. Ashoka said the BJP had continuously raised the issue in the Assembly for six days and alleged that no minister had come forward to defend Nagendra.
