Bangalore, Jun 26 (DHNS) : Justice N Santosh Hegde, who created a storm in the State’s political circles by resigning as Lokayukta, remains firm on his decision to quit.
Asked about his reported conversation with Union Home Minister P Chidambaram, Justice Hegde confirmed that the former did call him.
“Chidambaram is my friend and a former law colleague. He talked to me as a friend and as the Union Home Minister,” Santosh Hegde said.
Disclosing that Chidambaram requested him to reconsider his decision to resign, Justice Santosh Hegde said, “He told me that the corrupt forces will be pleased with my resignation. He requested me to continue as Lokayukta keeping in view people’s welfare and the fight against corruption.”
It is irrevocable
Stressing that his decision is irrevocable, Justice Hegde said: “But, I told him that there is no question of withdrawing the resignation.”
Meanwhile, several organisations, including the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Bangalore City Youth Congress workers, continued to protest against the State government’s “indifferent and callous” attitude towards the institution of Lokayukta and urged Justice Santosh Hegde to continue his crusade against corruption.
The Advocates Association of Bangalore (AAB) has strongly condemned the resignation of Lokayukta Santosh Hegde. AAB President K N Puttegowda said Hegde had brought dignity to the post and that the people would never accept his resignation.
AAB has requested the Governor not to accept the resignation.