Gowda refuses to comment on TN, Kerala tussle in Dam issue

Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, Nov 30 (UNI) Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal(Secular) President H D Deve Gowda today refused to comment on the ongoing tussle between the Tamil Nadu and Kerala governments on Mullaperiyar dam issue.

Talking to newspersons at Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple complex here, he said ''Sorry, no comments,'' when a reporter asked for his comments on the issue.

Asked what will be his next action, if the Election Commission rejects his demand to recall the Election Observer J Raymon Peter for Chamundeshwari assembly constituency poll, scheduled for December 4 and to post impartial observers, he said ''Let us wait and see''.

Mr Gowda alleged that Mr Peter had a soft corner for Congress and was harsh on the JD(S) campaign.

He also denied comment on Jharkhand Mukti Morcha(JMM) leader and Union Minister for Coal, Shibu Soren, convicted in a murder case.

When his attention was drawn to the long-pending demand of BJP that ministers with criminal background should be dropped from the union Cabinet, he said ''I do agree with BJP's demand, but at the same time it should be common to all.'' However, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has to decide on the issue, he added.

Earlier, Mr Gowda accompanied by Karnataka State Electricity Minister and his son D Revanna and family members offered worship at the Ranganatha Swamy temple. They were given a ''full Kumbha'' reception by the priests.

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