Bengaluru (DHNS): The principal Opposition the BJP in the Legislative Council on Tuesday charged the government with deliberately delaying taking a stand on the Centre’s controversial decision to ban the sale of cattle for slaughter.

Leader of the Opposition K S Eshwarappa accused the government of insulting B R Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi by not banning the cow slaughter in the state. “Both Mahatma Gandhi and Ambedkar were in favour of the ban. Hence, the Centre has taken the decision. The state government is insulting these leaders by delaying implementation of the Centre’s decision,” he added.

When Animal Husbandry Minister A Manju said that he needs two weeks’ time to give his reply in this regard, the BJP members took exception to him and accused him of being an escapist. Basanagouda Patil Yatnal (Ind) said the government is avoiding taking a decision on the floor of the House on the issue. Hence, the minister is seeking two weeks’ time, he added.

The Congress members opposed the BJP and accused the saffron party of forcing the minister to reply.

“The minister has not refused to reply. He has only sought some time. The Opposition members cannot dictate terms to the minister. They should wait till he replies,” Home Minister G Parameshwara said.

Manju then assured that he will make the government’s stand clear on the issue before the end of the session.