BELAGAVI: Amid a lockdown to check coronavirus spread in Karnataka, a BJP MLA has taken out an 'Agnihotra procession' here, claiming that smoke emitted from the ritual fire would ward off COVID-19.
The MLA, Abhay Patil, accompanied by several followers, dragged a push cart with smoldering cowdung cakes, neem, camphor and other herbs which forms 'Agnihotra' on Tuesday.
The lockdown and COVID-19 protocols were allegedly flouted and police too reportedly did not interrupt the procession taken out with a purpose to defeat the pandemic.
Speaking to reporters later, Patil said the Agnihotra procession was a reminder of the ancient medicinal practices of India.
He added that he would continue performing the ritual till June 15.