'Parivartana Yatra' an attempt to divide people: Venugopal

The BJP is attempting to divide the people through 'Parivartana Yatra' after realising that it cannot win against the Congress in Karnataka, said AICC General Secretary In-charge of Karnataka K C Venugopal.

He was speaking after visiting people during 'Mane Manege Congress' campaign at Akashabhavana in Mangaluru on Monday.

Venugopal said that the 'Parivartana Yatra' and opposition to Tipu Jayanti are part of the 'divide and rule' policy of the BJP. The BJP has been making an attempt to divide between people by using the terms 'Taj Mahal', 'Tipu Sultan' and so on, he added.

"Parivartana Yatra will have no effect on the Congress. The public is well aware of the BJP. President of India Ramanath Kovind himself has mentioned in his speech that Tipu Sultan was a great freedom fighter. But, the BJP is not subscribing to it only because the party wants to carry on with the cheap political tactics," he said.

Venugopal also criticised the Parivartana Yatra by BJP, saying that there is a need to conduct Parivartana Yatra against Modi in the Nation. "The demonisation and the GST have been a big hit for the Nation's economy. Employments are being cut instead of generation of employments. Agriculture sector is neglected than ever before," he added.

Responding to the alleged 'anti-Hindu statements' by Congress legislators during a Lingayat conference, Venugopal said that it was the personal decision of the Congress leaders to take part in the programme. It is not connected with the party. Congress treats all religions equally, Venugopal insisted.

The general secretary said that several changes are being introduced in the party organisation as per the directions by AICC vice president Rahul Gandhi. The upcoming election results will not go by the pre-poll surveys.

Venugopal added that it has been decided to complete the 'Mane Manege Congress' campaign before November-end. He is visiting the districts to ensure the participation of party leaders and workers in the campaign.

Speaking during a booth committee presidents' meeting at Mallikatte, Venugopal said that the BJP has no moral right to speak against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has concern for the poor.

Venugopal further hit out at the Central government for taking the demonetisation move, saying that November 8 will be observed by Congress as the Black Day. "Nearly 150 people have lost their lives, waiting in queues in front of banks. Black money is entirely converted into white. The Congress will conduct a protest at all district centres on November 8. Candles will be lit in Bengaluru at 8 am, by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, KPCC President Dr G Parameshwar and all ministers," said the general secretary.

'Get ready for elections'

Venugopal asked the party leaders to set aside their differences and work in unity towards the victory of the party in the upcoming Assembly elections. He predicted that the Congress will come to power in the 2019 Parliamentary elections too.

A booklet on various schemes of the state government was distributed to the people during the door-to-door visits.

Prior to the campaign, Venugopal moved in an open vehicle from Kavoor Circle to Akashabhavana.

AICC secretary P C Vishnunath, ministers B Ramanath Rai, U T Khader, MLA B A Mohiuddin Bava and Mayor Kavita Sanil were present among others.