BJP Govt to file defamation case against Ex-CM

Bangalore, Sep 30 (UNI) The BJP Government in Karnataka will file a defamation case against its former coalition partner and Former Chief Minister and JD(S) Leader H D Kumaraswamy for making 'baseless' corruption charges against Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa.

Addressing a hurriedly convened joint press conference, Ministers K S Eswarappa, Aravinda Limbavali, Basavaraja Bommai, R Ashok and Katta Subramanya Naidu, refuting the charge made by the the JD(S), said nobody in the State Government received 'kickbacks' for awarding the tender for construction of Housing Complex for Economically Weaker Sections to a private agency as alleged by Mr Kumaraswamy.

Mr Kumaraswamy, speaking at a public meeting, had alleged that Mr Yeddyurappa had accepted a 'bribe' of Rs 50 crore to allot the tender.

Strongly defending the State Government's decision in awarding the tender, Transport Minister Ashok said it was taken on 'merit' and the allegation made by the Former Chief Minister and the Congress Party was baseless.

The BJP Government had taken very serious note of the allegation made by Mr Kumaraswamy, which was aimed at tarnishing its image. It was made with malicious intentions,he claimed.

''The State Government has decided to file a defamation suit against the JD(S) leader for his alleged remarks. We have appointed a special public prosecutor to pursue the case,'' he added.

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