Bangalore:
It was a filmy entrance for members of the Opposition today. They marched into the Karnataka Assembly blowing conches, pounding a gong and carrying two suitcases. They say the bags are full of documents that prove the inherent corruption of BJP Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa.
The suitcases were soon on their way again, removed from the Assembly by marshals. They were followed by Opposition MLAs from both the JD(S) and the Congress who vacated the well of the House where they had been shouting slogans in favour of a more formal boycott- they didn't return for the rest of the day.
The Opposition wants a formal debate in the Assembly on corruption within the government - a request turned down by the Speaker. Over the last few months, Yeddyurappa has been accused of gifting government land to his friends and family in sweetheart deals. Most of the documents to back those charges were helpfully provided by the JD(S) headed by former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.
"For the last two days, by misusing the Speaker's chair, they are not ready to accept Opposition's demand to discuss this issue. Today I congratulate the speaker to give permission to send our reaction to the privilege committee. At the appropriate time, I am going to expose every issue," Kumaraswamy said.