BJP leaders must speak up on Mahadayi project, says minister Laxmi Hebbalkar
Speaking to reporters here on Friday, the minister said that the BJP leaders claimed during the Lok Sabha elections that Goa gave permission for the Mahadayi project and used it as a political tool while distributing sweets in celebration. "Now, answers must come from them," she asserted.
Rejecting allegations by the Goa CM that the Karnataka govt is politicising the Mahadayi issue, the minister clarified that the state govt has no need to politicise matters related to drinking water, health, or education.
Responding to recent attacks on Kannadigas in Goa, the minister strongly condemned the incidents. "Whether it is Karnataka or Goa, both are integral parts of India. I condemn the attacks on Kannadigas. Such acts are completely wrong," she said.
She pointed out that many people from Goa come to Karnataka, and Karnataka residents also visit Goa. "Goa's economy depends on people from other states. Goa govt must ensure that visitors and tourists from other states are not harassed," minister Hebbalkar urged.
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She also said that the Goa govt must not remain silent on the attacks against Kannadigas and that she would bring the issue to the attention of HK Patil, the minister in charge of border affairs.
'No meeting held by Surjewala with officials'
Meanwhile, Hebbalkar clarified that State Congress in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala has not held any meetings with govt officials. "He only met with ministers and discussed how they are performing in terms of public service," she said.
"Surjewala meets with ministers and MLAs once in every three months. It is not an evaluation meeting. He only gathers information about departmental activities," she added.
When asked about minister KN Rajanna's recent statement that a revolution would happen in Sept, Hebbalkar responded, "Ours is a party that listens to the high command. CM and deputy CM have already given a clear explanation. I do not wish to comment further on this," she said.
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