Udupi: District-in-charge minister Dr Jayamala defended politician-turned actress Ramya who could not pay homage to actor and Congress former minister M H Ambareesh.

Speaking to reporters after laying foundation stone for the Rangamandir in Udupi on Friday November 30, she said, “Ramya has said that she is unwell. There may not be any other reason for her absence during the last rites of Ambareesh,” she said adding that women face many problems.

“Ambareesh was a great leader of our state. There is no confusion regarding Ambareesh memorial and we will build it soon,” she added.

Reacting to controversy over Vishnuvardhan memorial, she said, “I understand what Bharathi Vishnuvardhan is undergoing. It has been 9 years since Vishnu has left us. I respect Bharathi and her family. Vishnu loved Mysuru very much and our government has already discussed about it with them. CM Kumaraswamy also comes from the film background. There are no differences of opinion regarding memorial. There is an issue regarding land meant for the memorial and we will resolve as soon as possible.”

She further said that the state government was stable.

Regarding ongoing toll issue, she said that the central minister Nitin Gadkari must intervene in this matter. “We cannot take any action. They should urge the minister that no toll should be collected until service road is constructed. They have agreed that it will be laid by next March. Locals have the pass and the centre must intervene here,” she said.