MLC Ivan hits back at Eshwarappa; says he should resign as Opposition leader

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Nov 08, 2014:  MLC Ivan D’Souza   stirred up another controversy  while reacting to the  statements  made by senior BJP leader and former Deputy CM KS Eshwarappa that “Chief Minister and Home Minister would initiate action in sexual assault  cases only if their daughters were raped.”

Speaking to reporters at his office here on November 8, Saturday, Ivan questioned “What would Eshwarappa do if his wife was raped?.” However, the MLC was quick enough to clarify that he said as above just to make Eshwarappa realise how it feels when someone makes such comments about one’s personal life.

Taking strong exception to the politicisation of issues like the Nanditha incident of Thirthahalli which has led to much mud-slinging, Ivan  demanded the resignation of Eshwarappa from the post of Opposition party leader and also warned that Eshwarappa will not be allowed to enter the district.

Continuing, Ivan questioned the silence of Eshwarappa as well as Udupi MP Shobha Karandlaje when one of their own colleagues in the erstwhile BJP government was charged with raping the wife of his very own friend.

Defending the state Congress government, Ivan said the government has initiated several measures to ensure strict punishment to accused in cases of sexual assaults. Stating that the State government has taken serious cognizance of Nanditha case, he said the CID probe is being undertaken rigorously.
 He informed that Rs 45 lakh out of the Rs 50 lakh MLC fund  has been released for various works.

Shashidhar Hegde, Praveen Alva and  Ashok DK, Corporators were also present.