Dr G Parameshwar takes potshots at CM Siddaramaiah

MYSURU: KPCC president Dr G Parameshwar launched a veiled attack on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during the launch of a book titled “Yaarannoo Nirlakshisabedi Please...” authored by additional regional commissioner M.R. Ravi here on Saturday.

He alleged that Dalits were not being provided equal opportunities and were discriminated against even in 21st century. “This book Yaarannoo Nirlakshisabedi Please (Don’t disregard anyone, please) is relevant to current times and I would like to use this occasion to say don’t disregard me...please,” he added.

The KPCC chief said he was proud to be born in a Dalit family, but was disturbed by the fact that the society was being divided on caste lines. “People born in the lowest rung of the society, too, have aspirations and ambitions and these can be understood only by those born in this community”.

Later, when reporters asked Dr. Parameshwar to elaborate on his comments, he said he only expressed his view points and what was written in the book. “It is up to you (media) to read between the lines. I said what I had to say”.

To a question on the growing demand for a Dalit to occupy the Chief Minister’s chair, he said the demand was irrelevant now. People, however, have a right to express their opinion, he added.