Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Oct 19: Bantwal MLA Rajesh Naik denied charges levelled by former minister Ramanath Rai alleging that the kin of the ruling party MLA is involved in illegal bauxite extraction.
Addressing media here on Monday, October 19, MLA Rajesh Naik said, "I have no relative in Mudipu who is indulged in illegal bauxite extraction as alleged by Ramanath Rai. I have a permit for laterite stone extraction in Ganjimutt on my land, but for the past six months, I have halted it."
"I admit that a probe has to be undertaken against the illegal bauxite extraction, which will benefit those who are carrying out their businesses legally. Even I am one among those who demanded a probe into the illegal bauxite extractions being carried out," said Rajesh Naik.
MLA Naik also denied Ramanath Rai's allegations that he was behind the transfer of Mangaluru AC Madan Mohan. "Four MLA's had approached the chief minister to cancel the order and retain him in Mangaluru and I was one of them," said Naik.
District BJP president Sudharshan said, "There are no relatives of BJP MLA Naik involved in illegal bauxite extraction. However, we received information that Mangaluru MLA Khader's close relatives are in red bauxite company."