Cong members block proceedings in K'taka Assembly

Bangalore, Feb 20 (UNI) In an unprecedented move, the Opposition Congress members today blocked proceedings in the Karnataka Assembly by virtually preventing the presiding officer from functioning, demanding immediate election to the Chairman's post in the Legislative Council.

As soon as the House re-assembled for the second time after lunch, Mr Araga Gnanendra, a panel member, entered the House to conduct the proceedings. Even as he was entering the house, Congress members, including former Ministers Anjanamurthy and D K Shivakumar, rushed towards the Speaker's podium, while other colleagues shouted slogans 'go back.' Pandemonium prevailed in the Assembly as members of the coalition partners - Janata Dal (Secular) and Bharatiya Janata Party - raised counter slogans against the Congress members. Nothing was audible in the din for some time. Amidst noisy scenes, Mr Gnanendra adjourned the House for the day.

Earlier, the House was adjourned after lunch break as the Congress members continued their dharna in the well of the House.

UNI