Daijiworld Media Network - Kolar (SP)

Kolar, Dec 10: "I have been extremely anguished at the loss of Siddaramaiah in the last assembly election from Chamundeshwari constituency. His defeat has hurt me the most, and I have not been able to forget that excruciating experience," said state assembly speaker, Ramesh Kumar, with tears rolling down his cheeks.

Speaking after taking part in 'Kanakadasa Jayanti' programme organized here on Sunday December 9, Ramesh Kumar said that he and several other Congress leaders had pleaded with Siddaramaiah to enter the fray from this constituency, but he did not agree. "By defeating Siddaramaiah, people of Chamundeshwari constituncy in Mysuru proved that those who do good work do not get reward, and they are forgotten," he said, still unable to control his grief.

"Siddaramaiah had introduced 'Anna Bhagya' scheme and provided food to the poor. But people who were fed by Siddaramaiah poisoned him in the election. His people-friendly programmes were not supported by our own legislators. Many party leaders ganged up against him to make sure that he did not become chief minister again. Those who opposed him should reflect on what they have done," he advised.

Ramesh Kumar stated that he could see reflections of Devaraj Urs. With a choked voice, he urged the Kuruba community to take a pledge never to allow Siddaramaiah, a precious jewel from the community, to slide down. At this, Siddaramaiah, who was also present, visibly turned emotional.