The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : Minister’s statements condemned

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Tuesday, Dec 09, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka - Bangalore

Minister’s statements condemned

Staff Reporter

BANGALORE: Vokkaligara Hitarakshana Samiti and the Vokkaligara Jagruti Vedike have condemned the statements of Minister for Labour B.N. Bachche Gowda against the former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and members of his family.

The two organisations termed the statements “irresponsible” and “derogatory” and have demanded the resignation of the Labour Minister.

Addressing presspersons here on Monday, vedike leader Krishnappa said Mr. Deve Gowda was a leader who had worked in various capacities such as Opposition Leader, Minister, Chief Minister and thereafter Prime Minister. “One should be proud of the achievements of Mr. Deve Gowda who has continuously worked for the welfare of the people,” he said.

‘Baseless allegations’

He said that Mr. Bachhe Gowda, who enjoyed several positions with the blessings of Mr. Deve Gowda, had chosen to level baseless allegations against the latter to please the Bharatiya Janata Party with which he was now associated.

“The outburst by the Minister is just to please Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa and save his position since there are reports that he will be dropped from the Ministry after the byelections.”

Another vedike leader K.C. Gangadhar, said, “If there is any personal enmity or differences with Mr. Deve Gowda, the Minister should sort it out privately instead of making vituperative remarks against the former on a public platform.”

They said Mr. Bachche Gowda had claimed that he was the descendant of erstwhile Bangalore ruler Kempegowda and was born wealthy.

An investigation by the Government would bring out the truth of his riches, they said. Mr. Bachche Gowda should stop making meaningless and baseless allegations and withdraw his statements.

“Vokkaliga organisations will launch an agitation against the Minister if he fails to withdraw his statements,” they added.

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