Oppn should understand PM Modi's concern over economic prudence: Kumaraswamy

Bengaluru, May 17 (IANS) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Monday criticised the Congress, saying that while the entire country had understood Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s concern over economic prudence, the Opposition party had failed to do so. 

Responding to questions from mediapersons in Bengaluru, Kumaraswamy said the Opposition should act responsibly by understanding the Prime Minister’s concerns and spreading awareness among the public instead of indulging in what he termed “petty propaganda”.

He said the crisis in the Middle East had adversely affected countries across the world and India, which depends heavily on imported oil, would naturally face additional economic pressure. Despite this, he said India had successfully withstood several such challenges because of its economic strength.

“In view of future uncertainties, the Prime Minister has appealed to citizens to avoid purchasing gold for a year. This suggestion has been made purely in the national interest so that the country does not face economic difficulties in future. It is not right for the Congress party to find fault with such a sincere appeal,” Kumaraswamy said.

He further stated that ordinary citizens had accepted the Prime Minister’s advice, while Opposition parties alone were opposing it.

“This is truly ironic. If the Congress itself had been in power under such circumstances, what would it have done? Criticising merely for political reasons is not right. Congress leaders should give up such narrow-minded thinking,” he remarked.

Calling upon the Congress to introspect, Kumaraswamy said the party should first explain how it was mobilising funds for implementing its five guarantee schemes.

“Before criticising the government, Congress should introspect. They should explain what taxes have been imposed and on which commodities prices have been increased to mobilise funds for the guarantees introduced for political gain. People are suffering because of price rise,” he alleged.

He described it as “small-mindedness” on the part of the Congress to question the Prime Minister’s concern for the country and advised the Opposition to display political maturity and work together responsibly.

Kumaraswamy also attacked the Congress government over its proposed “Sadhana Samavesha” convention in Tumakuru, questioning the purpose of the event.

“It is difficult to understand what achievement this convention is meant to celebrate. Are they celebrating three years of continuous internal power struggles? They themselves should answer that,” he said.

He alleged that 713 police officers had been suspended during the last two years and questioned the reasons behind the suspensions.

“What achievement are they showcasing through this convention? In the coming days, this very convention will contribute to the complete downfall of the Congress party in Karnataka,” he said.

Earlier in the day, Kumaraswamy met former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, who turned 94, and conveyed birthday wishes while seeking his blessings.

Speaking to reporters later, Kumaraswamy described the occasion as a special day for the family.

“Today is a very special day for our family. It is the birthday of the father who gave us life. Party workers, leaders and admirers have celebrated his birthday on a grand scale,” he said.

He noted that Deve Gowda had made immense sacrifices to protect and sustain the party through several political ups and downs.

“Even the Prime Minister treats Deve Gowda with great respect. I have prayed to God for his long life,” Kumaraswamy added.

Referring to speculation in sections of the media regarding Deve Gowda’s continuation as a Rajya Sabha member, Kumaraswamy said the veteran leader, despite being 94 years old, continued to work for the people both inside and outside Parliament.

“I do not know whether he will continue as a Rajya Sabha member or not. But even at this age, he is tirelessly working for the welfare of the people and raising his voice in Parliament for the interests of Karnataka,” he said.