MP Ramya's visit to MIMS creates tense moments

JD(S) Councillor taken into police custody, later released

MP Ramya on Tuesday visited Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS), where the victims of Chikkamandya bus mishap were being treated.

Ramya visited the hospital wards and inquired their health. District Health Officer Dr Marigowda, MIMS Superintendent Dr Shivakumar accompanied her and provided the details. The patients said they were being provided good treatment.

Speaking to media persons later, Ramya said that she could not visit the hospital earlier as she was not well and requested that the delay should not be misconstrued. “But, I was in constant touch with the DHO and MIMS director,” she said.

The State government has announced Rs one lakh compensation to the families of he deceased.

However, District-in-Charge Minister Ambareesh and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would be requested to increase the compensation amount. If not, she would present Rs 10,000 to the affected families from her pocket, Ramya added.

Chaos

JD(S) Councillor Mahesh Krishna was taken into custody by police when he took Ramya to task inside the ward for her delayed visit to the hospital.

As Ramya entered the inpatient ward he criticised her for not visiting the hospital even after three days of the mishap. He also demanded more compensation on a par with rail mishap victims who are provided Rs five lakh. Meanwhile, police intervened and tried to pacify him, but in vain. He was taken into police custody.

Upon receiving information, JD(S) district unit president D Ramesh, Councillors M J Chikkanna, M B Srinivas along with party workers staged a protest. They also waylaid Ramya’s car. Only after Ramya requested the police to release the Councillor, they withdrew the protest.