Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Jun 27: State Wakf minister, Zameer Ahmed Khan, sensing that his adamant stand on christening Haj Bhavan here after Tipu Sultan at any cost is facing bitter opposition, in a volte face, stated that a final decision on this issue is yet to be taken. His changed stand was forced perhaps because of widespread resentment that was expressed by the public to his earlier announcement.

He was speaking to media persons at Bengaluru on Tuesday June 26."We have accepted the suggestion given by BJP state president, B S Yeddyyrappa, to christen the building after former president of India, Dr A P J Abdul Kalam. We will initiate discussions on the issue with senior leaders and take a final decision soon," he stated.

Zameer said that he would talk about this issue with chief minister, H D Kumaraswamy, former chief minister, Siddaramaiah, and deputy chief minister, Dr G Parameshwar, before taking a decision.

He noted that during his tenure as chief minsister, Yeddyurappa had sanctioned grant of Rs 40 crore for Haj Bhavan, and said that he has noted his suggestion on the issue.

Replying to certain questions, Zameer said that information about him demanding a new car for himself from the government was untrue. "The chief minister is striving to pool resources to waive farm loans. Do you think I would seek a new car under these circumstances? I am for farmers. I am even ready to give up the new Innova car given to me by the government. Our department needs Rs 1,900 crore grant but I understand the current trying times. It would be imprudent for me to press the chief minister for more money considering the current situation. I request him to sanction at least ten percent of the above demand," he stated.