After three of its ministers in Karnataka submitted their resignations over porn clip controversy, an embarrassed BJP on Wednesday said it was an “unfortunate and indecent” incident. The party has also ordered an inquiry into the matter. Insisting that its national leadership will take “strongest action” against the ministers if found to have indeed indulged in the unseemly act, the party also denied reports that two of three ministers, considered close to former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, are likely to get away lightly.
“The national leadership of BJP has taken note of what has happened. It is unfortunate and uncalled for. Certainly it demeans the political system. We have no qualms in stating that. We have admitted that. Strongest action will be taken against them,” said BJP national spokesperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy said.
He maintained that a statement has already been issued by the party leadership and the matter is being looked into.
Hitting back at the Congress, which had attacked the BJP on this incident, Mr Rudy said the Banwari Devi case in Rajasthan and the making of a CD on a governor of Andhra Pradesh in the state’s Raj Bhavan were similar cases which were unfortunate.
Mr Rudy denied reports that the two ministers involved in the controversy in the Karnataka government are likely to get away lightly as they are considered close to Mr Yeddyurappa.
“These reports are baseless. One is free to make his own speculations,” he said.
Asked if the case involved a breach of privilege as the ministers were caught inside the Assembly, Mr Rudy maintained that if any member of the House felt so, he or she is free to move a breach of privilege motion.