Yavagal defends foreign junket

 Congress MLA B R Yavagal, who led a legislature committee on a foreign junket recently, again stoutly defended the tour stating it was no crime if legislators wanted some international exposure.

Speaking during a discussion on motion of thanks to the Governor's address in the Legislative Assembly, Yavagal blamed the media for portraying them in bad light.

Yavagal as chairman of the Legislature Committee for the Welfare of Backward Classes and Minorities had led a 15-member delegation to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. “It was an educational tour and not a jolly junket. It was a great experience and we have a learnt a lot from the tour. Such tours should continue in the future,” he said.

The 67-year-old Nargund MLA said the delegation had studied the public transportation system, plantations and sheep rearing in Australia. “Most of us (legislators) are from rural background and do not have high educational qualifications. Should not we be allowed to learn what is happening around the world,” he asked.

Yavagal said even the common man went on foreign tours. “When officials are allowed to go on foreign tours, why should not we,” he sought to know.

“In fact, it should not be considered expenditure at all when the state’s budget size is Rs 1.25 lakh crore,” he added.