Daijiworld Media Network – Sullia (SP)
Sullia, Jul 21: Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, R V Deshpande, arrived at pilgrimage centre, Subrahmanya in the taluk, on Tuesday in the company of his wife, Radha. Besides performing Mahapuja in the temple, he participated in the ritual of ‘Kannika Puja’ in Subrahmanya Mutt.
Sri Vidyaprasannateertha Swamiji of Subrahmanya Mutt felicitated the dignitary by draping a shawl around him and offering him fruits and blessed rice grains.
Speaking to the press on the occasion, Deshpande said that illegal mining has been causing losses to the state and the country, and hence reiterated his earlier demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the entire issue. He said that the Chief Minister himself had expressed his concern about illegal mining in a statement made in the legislative council. Deshpande expressing the view that the government has been losing its moral right to stay in power, and its efforts to shield mining barons has been paving way for anarchy. He concurred that illegal mining and export also take place in neighbouring states of Goa, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, and insisted that the proposed investigation should be free from considerations like caste, religion and party affiliations.
Deshpande felt that Lokayukta investigation will not be effective, as Lokayukta needs to get clearance from the government before taking action. He pointed out that the government has been doing nothing about the recommendations and information contained in the earlier Lokayukta report submitted in December 2008. He felt that Yeddyurppa has been dithering from taking any action against Reddy brothers for the fear that his government might suffer from instability. He said that his party will be undertaking Bellary Yatre to create awareness among the people about the failures of the government and illegal mining.
Hangyo chief, Pradeep Pai, local Congress leader, Vimala Rangaiah, temple executive officer, Ningaiah, and several others accompanied Deshpande during the said visit.