Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB/EP)

Udupi, Feb 22: Former chief minister Siddaramaiah said, "There is nothing wrong in asking for a reservation." Refraining from reacting to the question by news reporters about including Panchamasali community in the list of reservations, he said, "Reservations should be given to all those who are eligible as per the constitution. There is a commission of permanent reservations which should scrutinize and recommend who should be included in the list. The government should give reservations as per their recommendations."

Asked about the IMA scam, he said, "I have no connection with it. What is the use of saying that the money is given in my hands when in fact, it was given to somebody else? They should ask those to whom the money was given. I do not know. I have not taken even five paise from anybody in that respect."

Speaking about his refusal to donate for Ram Mandir, he asked if Ram is only in Ayodhya. "Isn’t the Rama in our hometown not the son of Dasharatha? Isn't what we are constructing in our hometown Ram Mandir? What is there to create controversy in it?"

With regard to naming him as a traitor, he said, "None from BJP has sacrificed his life for the country. But they speak about patriotism."