‘If you have courage, get Krishna J Rao married to Pooja’: Pratibha Kulai challenges Puttur BJP leaders

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 1, 2026: Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes member Pratibha Kulai has issued a counter-challenge to Puttur BJP leaders who had challenged her, asking them to show their “courage and morality” by arranging the marriage of Krishna J Rao with Pooja.

Speaking at a press conference in Mangaluru on Tuesday, she said the BJP leaders in Puttur had no right to make statements without first ensuring justice for the young woman, Pooja.

She said Krishna J Rao, who she alleged is the father of Pooja’s child, should marry her.

“Those who challenged me at a press conference in Puttur should take the initiative to arrange this marriage and ensure justice for the victim,” Pratibha said.

She also said the BJP had no moral right to invite her to the ‘Puttur Chalo’ programme without first facilitating Pooja’s marriage to Krishna J Rao.