Stricter action in pub attacks could have averted homestay attack: Oscar

Mangalore, August 4: Had stricter action been taken against the perpetrators of the 2009 pub attacks, the homestay attack would not have taken place said Oscar Fernandes, MP.

Speaking to media persons in Padil on Saturday, where he paid a visit to the homestay site where young boys and girls were assaulted by Hindutva activists, Mr. Fernandes said that the incident is a black spot for the city of Mangalore. The incident is condemnable and has rightly been taken very seriously by the High Court of Karnataka. The National Commission for Women is also expected to spring into action soon and visit Mangalore, he said.

Stating that there is a need for police machinery to be more alert, Mr. Fernandes said that he has faith in the police department and that they would carry out a fair investigation.

On Anna Hazare team announcing its political ambitions, Mr. Fernandes said that the Indian constitution provides opportunity for any citizen to compete in politics and hence, Anna is well within his rights to join politics. However, Mr. Fernandes maintained that the Congress will not be perturbed by the move as it has its own base.