Mysuru: “Choice of food is a democratic right and vested interests in BJP are blowing an insignificant issue unnecessarily for political mileage,” said former Mayor Purushotham. He was addressing a press conference organised by Pragathipara Sanghatenegala Okkuta at Pathrakarthara Bhavan here this morning.

Referring to the eating of beef at a function in Kalamandira premises here recently, Purushotham said that it was just a symbolic protest to indicate freedom of food which has been hyped. He contended that there was no intention to hurt the sentiments of anybody and if proved, he was ready to apologise for the incident.

Continuing, Purushotham said that BJP activists by splashing cow urine in Kalamandira premises have indirectly triggered untouchability issue and a complaint in that regard has been registered with Jayalakshmipuram Police.

Purushotham warned of protest if opposition parties do not stop hyping the issue immediately. State Nayaka Welfare Forum President Dyavappa Nayaka, DSS Convenor Shambulingappa and leaders of other organisations were present.