Members cutting across party affiliations on Wednesday demanded summoning of State Election Commissioner C R Chikkamath for ‘belittling’ the dignity of the House by directing DCs to get ready for the elections to urban local bodies, without taking note of the unanimous resolution adopted by the Assembly on Tuesday seeking deferment of polls.
BJP, Congress and JD(S) members criticised Chikkamath for taking a ‘unilateral’ decision, thereby insulting the sovereignty of the House. They vociferously appealed to the Speaker to summon Chikkamath and admonish him for not consulting the CM, chief secretary or others before directing the DCs to prepare for the elections.
Moving a breach of privilege motion, Dr Sarvabhowma Bagali and Abay Patil demanded that the chair initiate stern action against him.
Minister for Municipal Administration Balachandra Jarkiholi alleged that Chikkamath did not bother to turn up despite being summoned by the CM and chief secretary. Opposition leader Siddaramaiah said: “It is clear that Chikkamath has committed breach of privilege for which he needs to be summoned and advised accordingly. He is not a dictator and this is not Pakistan.”