by reciprocal arrangement with Star of Mysore

Mysore, Oct 20: 'When it comes to the matter of welfare and security of the minority community, I am ready for any sacrifice and the decisions taken regarding celebrations of Datta Peetha and Shobayatra are proof for that', the Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy said.

While speaking at the Iftar party arranged by Mysore City Minorities Development Federation in Rajivnagar here yesterday, Kumaraswamy said it was the strict adherence to the party's policies that finally succeeded in safeguarding the interests of the party.

'When JD(S) formed the coalition Government with BJP, there was a sense of fear among the minority communities. But we stuck to secular principles that helped to contain any untoward incident. Even the violence that erupted in Mangalore was handled well and was brought under control in just five days', he said and requested the Muslim brethren to be wary of vested interests that incite such violence.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister promised to look into the matter of educational facilities for the minorities if the problems are apprised to him, saying Rs. 140 crore has been set aside for the purpose.

'A project has been prepared with Rs. 2 crore fund regarding construction of houses and distributing sites to the poor', he said adding that the project would be implemented soon.

MLAs G.T. Devegowda, M.P. Venkatesh, Sunitha Veerappagowda, MLCs Chikkamadu, Abdul Azeem, JD(S) leader Mallik Bhai, City JD(S) Secretary General Sharavathi Venkatesh, General Secretary Girigowda, Mohd. Azeezullah, Naziruddin and other leaders were present.