Justice S R Bannurmath calls it quits as K'taka Lokayukta

Bangalore, Feb 7: Karnataka is witness to yet another political uncertainty when the Lokayukta chosen by CM Sadananda Gowda has decided to quit from the coveted post. The person in the eye of the storm, former Kerala High Court Chief Justice S R Bannurmath has decided to call it quits.

Sources have claimed that CM Gowda was sent a letter by a judge requesting the government not to go ahead with the said matter with Governor HR Bharadwaj. Gowda has been quoted as saying, "I received a letter from Justice Bannurmath stating that because of the various things that have appeared in the newspaper, he is hurt, and it may not be possible for him, even though, if he is appointed as the Lokayukta, to perform his duties. So, he said that he is withdrawing his name and he requested me to get back to him from the government."

Bannurmath was rejected by the Governor over his involvement in a land row. He was the person recommended by the govt. Speaking at a press conference to explain his stand on the matter, Bannurmath said, "The allegation that allotment of a site to me in a judicial layout is illegal is baseless. I do not own any other property. Hence this allegation is baseless."

Citing that the allegation was behind his decision to opt out, he said, "All allegations made against me in the media and by the governor are false, reckless and motivated. I would not have been made a Chief Justice, held other constitutional posts had I been corrupt or communal."

He further commented while meeting mediapersons, "I am tired of answering painful questions. Took the decision to convey the CM yesterday, requesting him not to consider me for the post of Lokayukta."

OneIndia News