Saffron is a holy colour, BJP politicizing it: Former MLA Ivan D’Souza

Mangaluru: Former MLC Ivan D’Souza on Friday said that Saffron is a holy colour and is used by bishops as well. BJP is politicizing the colour.

Speaking to the reporters, Ivan said, “Saffron colour is in our national flag and is used by our bishops too. I respect the saffron colour and all religions. But BJP is politicizing the colour. Recently, I made a statement on a TV debate regarding cops dressed in saffron attire during Ayudha Puja. I just pointed out the statement of Chaitra Kundapur who delivered a provocative speech at Surathkal. But, Bajrang Dal tried to gherao my residence over my statement.”

He further said, “I have not said anything wrong about Bajrang Dal or saffron colour, instead, Chaitra in her speech had said that people call Bajrang Dal members as rowdies. Bajrang Dal members should decide whether to gherao my residence or Chaitra Kundapur’s. If they are hurt by my statement, I apologize.”

Talking about the recent statement of Swamiji of Vajradehi Math, he said, “I did not expect Swamiji to give such statement but I will not say anything against him.  I want to bring to his notice that when I was the MLC under the coalition government, I sanctioned Rs 1 crore for the development of Math.”

Also, talking about the bypolls, Ivan said, ” The two assembly seats will be won by the Congress party. People are frustrated with BJP’s administration due to the petrol rates hike and rise in the price of the commodities.”