Kundapur: A G Kodgi bids farewell to politics on 84th birthday

Silvester D’Souza
Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (VM)

Kundapur, Oct 2: Veteran politician A G Kodgi announced his retirement on Tuesday October 1 on the occasion of his 84th birthday, after a stint of about 57 years in the political field.

Announcing his retirement in front of the media here, he said, "Having started my political career with Congress party, I got opportunity to serve the public in various capacities. Later in 1993, I joined BJP and got the opportunity to hold various posts during its regime. I am happy that I have served sincerely during my political career."

Thanking Congress and BJP leaders for giving him the opportunity to serve the parties, Kodgi said that he was retiring from politics with a sense of pride.

"I am neither sad nor hold any grudge against anyone, but I am frustrated with the present day political system which is full of corruption, hatredness, and criticism. When this is the case, it is high time for me to retire at the age of 84," he added.

Kodgi said while he was heading the task force for the implementation of the Third Finance Commission, he was disappointed that the government had not implemented most of the recommendations made by him. "Even though the Constitution mentions implementation of reports once in 5 years, the government did not fulfil it," he lamented.

"Despite regular reminders on appointing panchayat development officers and secretaries for smooth flow of operation at the panchayats, the decision has still not been taken," he said, stating that there are various practices taking place in violation of the Constitution.

In reply to a query, he said, "Even after retiring from politics, I will be in favour of general public and my children are free to take up any decision with respect to politics," he clarified.

Entrepreneur Anantakrishna Kodgi, his sons Ashok Kumar Kodgi, Kishore Kumar Kodgi, Ananda Kodgi, Kumara Kodgi and Kiran Kumar Kodgi were present.