V. Somanna urges government to protect tradition during Dasara and address public issues

MYSURU: Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna, on Thursday, expressed that the state govt should ensure there is no harm to our tradition and culture during the Dasara celebration.Somanna, speaking to reporters in Mysuru, said Mysuru Dasara symbolises faith, devotion, and history. Those chosen to inaugurate the Dasara festivities should first be made aware of the history, traditions, and rituals of Goddess Chamundi. They must conduct themselves in a way that does not harm our belief and culture. "We do not know whom the govt is trying to please with its decision to inaugurate the cultural carnival. However, when it comes to religion, discipline and tradition must be respected," Somanna stated.Meanwhile, he urged the state govt to set aside petty politics and focus on addressing people’s problems. People are suffering following heavy rains. Somanna asked the govt to direct all district incharge ministers to visit the rain-affected areas and personally oversee all relief measures without any delay.On his political future, Somanna contradicted his earlier remarks about contesting from Tumakuru. “I completed the necessary works there and earlier said I would not contest again from Tumakuru.

I plan to move to another constituency, though the decision is yet to be finalised and it all depends upon our high command and God’s will,” he stated.Commenting on the Dharmasthala controversy, Somanna remarked, “Even if a lie is repeated a thousand times, it remains a lie. The govt should not fall prey to the words of leftists and pseudo-intellectuals. At least now, it should realise its mistake.”On the new GST slab that will be effective from September 22, Somanna described it as a gift to the people on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi completing 12 years in office. He credited Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman for tirelessly working on reforms, while dismissing allegations that the move was politically motivated.Responding to Karnataka minister Krishna Byre Gowda’s criticism that the new policy would harm the state, Somanna said discussions on GST reforms are still underway and further details would be made available in the next few days.