Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Jan 26: Karnataka chief minister (CM), H D Kumaraswamy, in a startling revelation, claimed that a BJP leader had called a Congress MLA on Wednesday night, offering him a huge 'gift' for crossing over to the saffron party. He said that this incident clearly shows that BJP is continuing with its efforts to topple the coalition government in the state through Operation Lotus.

He was speaking to media persons at the Vidhana Soudha after meeting Governor, Vajubhai Vala, on Friday January 25 morning. He said that the call made by BJP leader is evidence to that party's continued effort to wrest power by offering lure. He however, claimed that the Congress leader rejected the 'gift offer' and cut the call after advising the caller to let him be on his own.

"You will be surprised if you find out the astronomical amount of bribe offered to the Congress MLA. The caller also asked the destination where the 'gift' has to be delivered. It will also surprise you if I reveal the source from where this money comes," he stated. However, he chose to refrain from revealing the identity of the caller and the Congress MLA, amount offered, what kind of gift was offered, and such other details. He just asked the curious reporters to wait and watch to get to know these details.

It is learnt that Kumaraswamy went to Raj Bhavan at the behest of the Governor who had wanted to know details of resort politics, fight between Congress legislators, etc. He reportedly explained to the Governor that the MLAs had to be taken to a resort because of efforts made by BJP to destabilise the government.

He complained that two MLAs who are in Mumbai and reported to be in touch with BJP leaders have not yet appeared before the public so far. He also told the Governor that the brawl between two Congress leaders at the resort was personal matter and legal steps are being taken. He informed the Governor that three teams have been formed for the arrest of the legislator accused of the attack. Sources also said that he also discussed the issue of convening joint session of the legislature and nominating Tippeswamy to the legislative council.