'Enough on Hublot, discuss drought'

The ruling Congress on Wednesday asked the Opposition to give up its agitation over the watch issue and allow discussion on issues that matter most to the people.

Amid slogan shouting by the BJP, Congress leader in the Legislative Council and minister S R Patil, said that the State was witnessing severe drought in 40 years and there should be discussion on the issue. It is not right to debate on watch, chain and shoes etc. Give up your agitation.”

But, his appeal made no impact on the Opposition members who continued to demand the resignation of Siddaramaiah. They exhibited the picture of the watch worn by him and also said that it was a stolen one.

Congress members too exhibited the photos of BJP leaders wearing expensive watches. Patil said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi had worn a suit which cost Rs 10 lakh. Did he resign over that?” As the slogan-shouting continued, Chairman D H Shankarmurthy adjourned the House to Thursday.

A similar scene was witnessed in the Assembly also. When Siddaramaiah made a suo motu statement before handing over the watch to the Speaker, BJP leader Jagadish Shettar was heard saying amid the din, “You are running away from facing the House. You are trying to hide your offence.”

 Shettar said the matter was before the court, and Siddaramaiah had given contradictory statements about the watch. While demanding documentary evidences like the receipt of the watch, he said, “Arrest Dr Varma and all the information will come out.”

The JD (S) too joined the BJP members to demand a debate on the watch. However, three JD(S) MLAs Zameer Ahmed Khan, H C Balakrishna and N Cheluvarayasamy did not join the protest staged by their party.

When there was no order in the House with Siddaramaiah and the BJP members shouting down each other, the House was adjourned for Thursday.