Siddu govt trying to protect Min Nagendra: Srinivas Poojary

Team Udayavani, May 29, 2024, 3:07 PM IST

Shimoga: Council member Kota Srinivas Poojary has raised questions regarding the differing treatments of former minister KS Eshwarappa and current minister Nagendra amidst allegations of corruption and misconduct.

Poojary criticized the Siddaramaiah government for not taking similar actions against Nagendra, who is implicated in an alleged Rs 87 crore fraud.

Speaking in Shimoga, Poojary referenced the suicide of Chandrasekhar, an officer from the Scheduled Tribe Department, who left a death note implicating himself in the diversion of funds intended for the education and health development of underprivileged children.

Poojary stated, “Chandrasekhar was an honest officer. The corporation, established to help poor children, saw Rs 87 crores transferred to other work, leading to his tragic decision.”

Poojary accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah government of attempting to protect Nagendra to cover up the case. He demanded that the government take immediate action to maintain its integrity. “Even if your minister was involved, he should have been fired immediately. If you want to retain your dignity, fire the minister immediately. Transfer this case to the CBI or have it investigated by a retired Chief Justice of the High Court,” he urged.

Additionally, Poojary called for Rs 25 lakh compensation to be given to Chandrasekhar’s family, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding a pen drive that was taken from Chandrasekhar’s possession without informing his family.

“What was in it should be revealed,” Poojary insisted.

Poojary warned of potential protests and political fallout if Minister Nagendra is not removed from his position.

“If the minister is not sacked, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should resign. We will fight in the assembly proceedings and consider filing a complaint with the Governor,” he declared.