Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Oct 9: Chief minister B S Yeddyurappa clarified on Wednesday October 8, that minister Anand Vasant Asnotikar, who is facing allegations of election-related irregularities, will not be dropped from the state cabinet.

Speaking to reporters here on Wednesday October 8, Yeddyurappa charged the Congress leaders of trying to create embarrassment for the government by making unwarranted criticisms and levelling un-substantiated charges.

"If at all Asnotikar had furnished incomplete or wrong information at the time of filing information during the election, the election commission will initiate suitable steps. I can not initiate steps against a minister, relyingsolely on the allegations of the opposition parties. The election commission is expected to take a decision on the issue," he said.

Yeddyurappa reiterated, that no irregularities had been committed in the purchase of bicycles and the Bhagyalaxmi scheme by the government. "The opposition is indulging in raking up unfounded allegations against the government, as they are upset by the developmental works we have carried out. We have not not given the bicycle supply contract to any company this year. How can there be any irregularities?," he questioned. 

The chief minister also invited the opposition parties for a open debate on these issue on a public platform, so that he can give a fitting reply to each and every allegation made by them. While extending hearty Dasara and Vijaya Dashami greetings to the citizens of the state, the chief minister has requested everyone, irrespective of their political affiliations, to extend wholehearted support for the development of the state.