S L Bhyrappa stands by NRN in Anthem issue

Bangalore, Apr 12: Responding to the controversy over Narayana Murthy's remarks over the playing of National Anthem, Mr Bhyrappa told sources that the issue has been blown out of proportion. "What Murthy meant was there are foreign trainees on the campus. While our people sing, they would just stand and watch, which could be embarassing. The issue should be left there. We are not talking about some ordinary persons. Mr Murthy is a leader recognised the world over. Don't we play the National Anthem tune on Independence Day? Doesn't the police band play it on all occasions? There is a provision for that under the Indian Constitution. There are ample reasons for politicians to launch an attack on NRN. If you turn the pages of most newspapers in the last 4-5 years, you will know who these people are. He had spoken against the lack of infrastructure and NICE road controversy and resigned in connection with the International Airport. Politicians are upset with Murthy for one reason or the other. They have exploited the situation to attack him," he said.

Speaking on NRN's remarks on Cauvery issue, Br. Bhyrappa said, "Murthy is right in saying burning buses is no solution to the Cauvery row. What he means by 'work in Delhi' is that MPs should bring pressure on the Centre."

Apology or no apology

Members in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday demanded that the government not accept the apology offered by N R Narayanamurthy over the National Anthem controversy.

Mr Vatal Nagaraj (Kannada Chalavali Vatal Paksha) said the apology tendered by Mr Murthy establishes he (Mr Murthy) did insult the National Anthem during the President's recent visit to the company's Mysore campus. Mr G V Srirama Reddy (CPM), Mr H D Basavaraju (BJP) said the apology came only after the issue was raised in the Legislature and protests held in many parts of the State.

Home Minister M P Prakash had said action would be taken as per law after obtaining a report from the police. He was awaiting the report.

Police complaint against NRN

A Mysore-based advocate, A M Bhaskar, on Wednesday filed a complaint against N R Narayana Murthy at Vijayanagar police station seeking an inquiry into the National Anthem issue.

In his complaint, he has said Murthy has violated fundamental duty through his statement that singing National Anthem would embarrass foreign trainees on his campus. The statement has hurt the sentiments of Indians.

He has demanded an inquiry and legal action against Mr Murthy, states a release by the advocate.

Meanwhile, the Vijayanagar police said no case has been registered, but issued an acknowledgement on receiving the complaint

OneIndia News

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