'Govt failed to control Chikungunya disease'

Bangalore, June 26 : Main Opposition Congress members, led by Leader of the Opposition N Dharam Singh, today staged a walkout in the Legislative Assembly, protesting against the ''inadequate measures'' initiated by the Government to tackle the spread of Chikungunya disease.

Raising the issue after question hour, Mr Singh alleged that the Government had failed to control the disease, which had spread throughout the State. There was a need to create a momentum on the lines of the one initiated to fight malaria. The Government should pump in funds and appoint doctors and paramedical staff to treat the patients. If left unattended, the disease would seriously affect the rural people and render them jobless for atleast for a month, he cautioned.

His views were endorsed by All India Progressive Janata Dal leader Siddaramaiah, JD(S) leader P G R Sindhia and others.

Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, replying to the discussion, assured that he would immediately discuss the issue with officials and accord top priority for ensuring adequate supply of medicines and deployment of doctors and paramedical staff.

At one stage, Mr Sindhia and Mr Yediyurappa were engaged in a wordy duel.

Mr Yediyurappa said the Government would convene a meeting of various Opposition party leaders, in which the measures it had initiated would be explained.

Dissatisfied with the reply, Congress members staged a walkout.

UNI