Pics: Joshwa D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network–Mangaluru (JS)

Mangaluru, Oct 30: “There is total transparency in the Rs 1800 crore steel bridge project. There is no corruption involved as alleged,” said chief minister (CM) Siddaramaiah who arrived to city on Sunday, October 30.

Steel bridge

“The project was initiated during BJP regime in state in 2010. Even Detailed Project Report (DPR) was done during the BJP time. I only announced it in the 2014 budget. Now they are saying that there is corruption. BJP is known for lying. They think that if the lie is repeated hundred times, then it becomes the truth. Their own legislators including Suresh Kumar were in total support of the project. They did not object anytime even during the time I announced the project. But now they are singing a different tune.” Siddaramaiah added.

“D V Sadananda Gowda knows that people of Bengaluru desperately need the bridge. He knows that traffic problems will be solved by the project to a greater extent. Gowda is helpless now as he is compelled to talk against the project by his fellow party men.” CM said.

Corporations and Boards

When asked why there is delay in appointment of chairpersons for the corporations and boards, Siddaramaiah said that there will not be any more delay and the names will be finalised soon.

Exit of Srinivas Prasad

When asked to comment on the rumours of former minister Srinivasa Prasad joining BJP, Siddaramaiah said “I do not have any comments to make as Srinivasa Prasad has already left Congress party. I cannot talk about him joining any other party.”

Also commenting on the status of Congress after the exit of Srinivas Prasad, he said “Party will not become because of his exit.”

Sand policy for coastal districts

“As per the separate policy for the coastal districts is concerned, we have called a meeting on November 3 and clarity on this issue will emerge soon after that.” CM said while asked about the separate sand policy for coastal districts.

Security during Tippu Jayanthi

CM also said that proper security during Tippu Jayanthi has been in place. While asked about the objection by RSS, he said RSS is known for spreading communal hatred and in Tippu Jayanthi issue also it is doing the same.

Rudresh murder issue

Speaking on the murder issue of RSS worker Rudresh, CM said “ Already four persons have been arrested in connection with the murder of Rudresh. Strict action will be taken against the culprits as per law.”

Asked about the alleged role of Popular front of India (PFI) in the murder, he said “ The role of PFI has not been established. RSS is saying that PFI should be banned as it has a role. But there is no proof here yet. What RSS affiliates like Bajrang Dal and Sri Rama Sene have been doing? Should they not be banned?”

District in-charge minister Ramanatha Rai, Minister U T Khader, deputy commissioner Dr K G Jagadeesh, chief whip MLC Ivan D’Souza, MLAs J R Lobo, Moideen Bawa, Abhayachandra Jain, Mayor Harinath, police commissioner Chandra Shekar, superintendent of police Bhushan Gulabrao Borase were present at the airport among others.

As per schedule, Siddaramaiah will proceed to Valavoor, Thumbay near Bantwal for the inauguration of Bantawalada Buntara Bhavana by Buntara Sangha Bantwal.

Later in the afternoon, CM will leave for Udupi for the foundation laying ceremony of Koosamma Shambu Shetty Haji Abdulla Memorial women and children hospital.