BENGALURU: A discussion on drought in the Legislative Council took an unexpected turn on Wednesday, with “shawl politics” taking centre stage after a green shawl worn by an MLC triggered a war of words between the ruling party and opposition. The exchange soon moved to Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s shawl and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s coat.
The exchange began after BJP MLC Naveen Kottige threw on a green shawl as he rose to speak on drought and farmers’ issues. Congress MLC S Ravi remarked that Naveen had put on the shawl only when his name was called to speak, and said it would have got more “respect” had he worn it earlier. He suggested that the gesture appeared to be a show and that green shawls, farmers and the soil should be “in the heart”.
Naveen hit back, saying Ravi should instead look at the shawl worn by CM Shivakumar during the drought. He said the session had been convened to discuss problems faced by farmers. Ravi said the issue appeared to be aimed at getting publicity on YouTube and scoring brownie points. He said CM had his own style of dressing and clarified that he was questioning Naveen’s “showoff attitude” and not his capability.
The exchange soon escalated, with BJP members raising slogans against the government, calling it “anti-farmer”. Ruling party members entered the well of the House, protesting against Naveen’s remarks on the government’s ability to address farmers’ problems, and argued that the session had been convened only to discuss their issues.
The situation grew tense as members from both sides exchanged heated words, and came close to a physical confrontation. The Chairman briefly adjourned the House.
When the House resumed business, both Naveen and Ravi clarified their remarks. Naveen said he meant the government had not yet announced assistance for farmers, despite the drought. Ravi said his initial comment was made in a lighter vein and was intended to tease Naveen. However, after Naveen referred to the CM’s dressing style and questioned the government’s capability, Ravi responded by referring to PM Modi’s attire.
