Congress, Simha continue sparring over credit for Mysuru’s development

Mysuru: The city witnessed high political drama on Wednesday over the ongoing war of words between Mysuru MP Prathap Simha and Congress leaders over development projects implemented in the district.
Police had a tough time managing Congress and BJP activists.
KPCC spokesperson M Lakshmana tried to reach Prathap Simha’s office in Jaladarshini on Hunsur road for an open debate over who contributed more to the development of the district and Mysuru city in particular.
He was detained near Dasappa Circle when he was on his way to the MP’s office in a goods auto with tables and chairs. Later even though he tried to reach the office by walk, police stopped him resulting in a war of words. Later he and other Congress activists were detained by police. They were taken to Chamundi Vihar stadium and released after an hour, police said.
Lakshmana alleged that Simha was not ready for a debate. “He is a liar. He has no respect and belief in the Constitution. Let the BJP MP prove the contribution of state and Central governments to Mysuru. I am not doing this for political mileage. I am ready to go near his house also. Let him come for a debate. Let people know the truth,” he said.
Meanwhile, BJP activists also tried to reach the Congress office for the debate. They were stopped near Metropole Junction as they decided to walk towards the Congress office next to Dasappa Circle. They started protesting after garlanding the statue of Field Marshal KM Cariappa at Metropole Junction.
Tight police security arrangements were made near the MP’s office and Congress office as a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, Simha compared Lakshman to a pig and a donkey. Speaking to reporters, he said Congress leaders have sent a pig for a debate. “I was expecting former CM Siddaramaiah and former minister HC Mahadevappa for the debate. Warriors arrive by horse. Unfortunately, they sent a donkey,” he said.
“Mahadevappa is jobless now. He can come for a debate. He is now being misguided by those who don’t know my contribution to the development of Mysuru,” he said.