UT Khader slams opposition for wasting Assembly session, defends Nagendra amid controversy

UT Khader slams opposition for wasting Assembly session, defends Nagendra amid controversy

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug 22, 2026: Health Minister U.T. Khader has criticised the Opposition for allegedly wasting taxpayers’ money by disrupting the ongoing Assembly session, saying the House should not become a platform for political theatrics.

“This is an important session, where issues such as drought and excessive rainfall should be discussed. However, the Opposition is completely wasting the session, and people will not forgive them for it,” Khader said in Mangaluru.

He said political differences were acceptable, but they should not cause injustice to the state. “There is a hidden agenda behind creating a ruckus without any clear reason. Instead of giving notice and holding a discussion, they are indulging in politics,” he alleged.

Defending former minister B. Nagendra, Khader said Nagendra had resigned when allegations of misuse of funds were raised during his tenure as minister. He said Nagendra had subsequently faced all forms of investigation and received a clean chit.

“The money that had gone out has also been returned to the government department, and action has been taken against officials who committed mistakes. After being cleared of the allegations, he was given the ministerial position in accordance with the law,” Khader said.

He added that ministers do not assume office merely because their party takes a decision. “Everything is examined according to law, and the minister takes the oath through the Governor. Then, does the Governor not know? The Governor has examined everything and acted accordingly. The state investigating agency has given him a clean chit,” he said.

Khader also urged the BJP to conduct padayatras outside the Assembly but refrain from politicising proceedings inside the House.

Artificial Paneer Ban

On the ban on artificial paneer, Khader said the state government had prohibited the use of artificially manufactured paneer in Karnataka.

“Artificial paneer is not being used in our state. However, there is a possibility of artificial paneer being brought in from outside. Therefore, we have banned it in the state,” he said.

Khader added that the ban was not limited to paneer alone. “All artificially manufactured food products are being banned in the state,” he said.