Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB/EP)

Udupi, Apr 9: "I have given freedom to officials to prevent any illegal activities in the district. I will not call a meeting regarding the attempted murder of deputy commissioner. Such meetings get political colour when called. I will not interfere in the case," said district in-charge minister Pramod Madhwaraj on Saturday April 8, commenting on the recent attack on the DC and other officials during a raid on illegal sand mining in Kandlur, Kundapur.

"Though I was busy campaigning for the by-elections when the incident took place, I was mentally present in Udupi. I was in constant touch with the deputy commissioner and SP after the incident," he added.

Responding to allegations against him levelled by the BJP, he said, "I do not support any illegal activities. Opposition parties have two-pronged tongues. They criticize as they like. I do not react to them," he said.

"Congress will win both seats"

"The BJP's vociferousness is only outside the state. Congress has strengthened its roots in villages. I came to understand this when I went for campaigning. Therefore Congress will win Nanjangud and Gundlupet by-elections," he said.

On allegations against Congress women's wing chief Laxmi Hebbalkar, he said, "Laxmi Hebbalkar might have paid money to the workers for meals. Should they starve?"

"I have been made in-charge of Bargi constituency and I have not provided meals to anybody. I have not indulged in any illegal activities during the campaign," he added.