Mangaluru: Former KPCC general secretary Padmaraj R Poojary on Monday accused the BJP of politicising traditional cockfight events held at religious shrines in the coastal region. He stated that police and the govt would not interfere if these events were conducted in accordance with tradition.“The Congress-led govt will not impose restrictions on traditional practices. On several occasions, cockfighting has been misused for gambling. With police taking strict action against such illegal activities, many youths who were involved in gambling under the guise of cockfighting have now taken up regular employment, Poojary said.On the hate speech bill, Poojary asserted that it does not target any individual. “Are BJP leaders admitting publicly that they engage in hate speeches? The bill is aimed at curbing hate speeches and promoting harmony in the state,” he said.Poojary also rejected allegations from BJP representatives that the Congress leadership intended to transfer senior police officers from the district. He said the government, under CM Siddaramaiah, had posted officers who successfully curbed illegal activities and improved law and order. “Ministers have assured that the top officers in the district will not be transferred,” he added.Lauding govt initiatives to boost investment in coastal districts, Poojary highlighted the recent Coastal Karnataka Tourism Conclave, which attracted a massive response from investors. He also appreciated the participation of BJP MLAs and MPs and urged them not to mislead the public with political motives.“The CM and other ministers have ensured govt support to appoint a nodal officer and establish a single-window system for tourism project approvals. All MLAs and MPs should cooperate for the overall development of the region,” he added.
