BJP denies resignation of K'taka Minister

Mangalore, Oct 11 (UNI) BJP Karnataka unit President D V Sadananda Gowda today dismissed media reports that State Fisheries and Muzrai Minister B Nagaraja Shetty had tendered his resignation.

Addressing a hurriedly convened press conference here, he said he spoke over phone to Mr Shetty, who expressed ''deep hurt'' over the remarks made against him at a peace committee meeting convened last evening and the allegations made by senior Congress leaders like former Chief Minister M Veerappa Moily. As Dakshina Kannada district in-charge Minister, Mr Shetty was held responsible for the recent violence in the district, which claimed two lives and left over 100 people injured.

Mr Shetty had also conveyed that the district administration had efficiently handled the situation and brought the situation under control within two days and he had not interfered in the process at any stage, the BJP leader said.

Mr Gowda read out to the mediapersons a letter sent to him by Mr Shetty, in which he had expressed his pain over the accusations and had asked why he should continue.

He said Mr Shetty was an ardent party worker and had worked for the development of the district with sincerity as a Minister. He had also made all efforts to contain the recent violence in the district, he added.

Referring to Mr Shetty sending back the official car and gunman last night, he said ''let us watch. When Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa arrive here tonight, Mr Shetty would join them and watch in which car he is coming.'' Mr Gowda indicated that the arrest of Hindu activists, including himself, at Datta Peetha in Bababudangiri hills yesterday while attempting to take out 'Bhajan Sankeertan Yatra' would be taken up at the next coordination committee meeting of coalition partners.

Endorsing the demand of the Opposition leaders to ban fundamental and communal outfits disturbing peace in the district, he said any organisation indulging in instigating violence should be contained.

UNI MA GD VD PM1921