HD Kumaraswamy: “I humbly request the Governor to grant permission for prosecution”

Team Udayavani, Aug 28, 2024, 10:47 AM IST

Bengaluru: “I humbly request the Governor to grant permission for prosecution related to the Sri Sai Minerals case against me. Neither the Union government nor I intend to destabilize the current administration. Let them secure themselves,” said Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy In an interview with Udayavani’s “Neraa Nera”.

He addressed several issues, including allegations of land grabbing by the Chief Minister’s family in the MUDA scandal. He expressed doubts that the Chief Minister would resign, despite the mounting evidence against him. “Ultimately, legal action is the only solution,” he remarked.

Here is the transcript of HDK’s interview, which covers his department’s overall achievements and state politics.

You led a joint protest in the Assembly against the MUDA scandal and even organized the Mysuru Chalo movement. What was achieved?

We sought an opportunity to debate in the Assembly, and the Chief Minister should have responded. When that did not happen, we conducted the ‘Mysuru Chalo.’ However, even there, they attempted to divert attention by holding a rally in the name of a public movement. We aimed to raise public awareness through a march.

There is clear evidence of the Chief Minister’s family directly involved in the MUDA scandal, where they grabbed government land. They boldly claim to have done no wrong. They even say they have the backing of the high command and the support of 136 MLAs. In the end, legal recourse is the only solution. The legal battle has begun; let’s see how it unfolds.

There are allegations that you promised Amit Shah that you would bring down the state government, with support from Deve Gowda. Is this true?

Congress leaders have accused me of promising Amit Shah that I would bring down this government. I’ve seen this in the media too. But what dream are they selling? Is this based on some intelligence report? Does Amit Shah or Kumaraswamy have no other work than toppling elected governments? If you are secure, who can dislodge you? First, fix your own weaknesses. Otherwise, why did you convene the legislative assembly? Was it just to hold on to the numbers? They are making these statements to hold onto power.

Congress leaders are considering filing a complaint with the President, along with other leaders of the INDIA coalition. What is your take on this?

When a complaint reached the Governor, he issued a notice in accordance with the Constitution provided by Ambedkar. Those who claim that the notice was issued swiftly do not acknowledge that the Governor acted within his constitutional rights after consulting legal experts. When a complaint is filed, should an investigation proceed or not? If permission is granted for prosecution, does that mean the central government is biased?

No one has asked for arrests; they have only ordered an investigation. If we look at Congress’s long history of misusing Governors for political gain, it would fill volumes. Today, they have a negative view of Governors. Whatever decisions they make are purely political.

The Governor has not granted permission for prosecution against you and other former BJP ministers. Some allege that you are being protected. What is your response?

Notice who is indulging in politics of hatred. The Chief Minister and Home Minister say they will not spare the scams during the BJP-JD(S) tenure. If there is any wrongdoing, let there be an impartial investigation. If necessary, build another Parappana Agrahara Jail in advance. They are portraying me as having helped Sri Sai Venkateshwara Minerals Company.

In 2017, the Supreme Court ordered an investigation and report within three months. Why was there silence until now? I was just an ordinary MLA. Now, since November, they have started seeking prosecution. Doesn’t the Chief Minister need some wisdom? Did I cause any loss to the government’s treasury? Did I give away even an inch of land?

They are misusing power. They make decisions in the cabinet and then advise the Governor. As a citizen of this country, I humbly request the Governor to grant permission for prosecution without any delay. I am ready to face it. I do not want the infamy of being protected.

You opposed Preetham Gowda’s participation in Mysuru Chalo and Yogeshwar’s candidacy in Channapatna. Yet, you seem to be riding on the BJP’s support. Why is that?

I never told anyone not to join the padayatra. We only requested a few days’ postponement. I won’t speak much about the politics in Hassan. As of now, there has been no discussion about candidates in Channapatna. Some are trying to create confusion and gain sympathy.

We must understand that such issues will hinder our victory. These matters should be resolved privately rather than discussed publicly or in the media. The BJP-JD(S) alliance was not formed temporarily; it is meant to be permanent. Both party workers wish for this alliance to last long. There should be no public discord.

How is it working with Prime Minister Modi as a Union Minister?

Among the politicians I have seen recently, Prime Minister Modi stands out for his administrative experience and his unique vision for development. He envisions India becoming the top nation in the world by 2047 when we celebrate 100 years of independence. He has made several development-oriented decisions in the cabinet. He approved ₹20,000 crore for the PM Kisan scheme and the construction of 40 lakh houses in the first cabinet meeting itself. This shows his commitment. The speed of the country’s development is on his mind. Both officials and states must cooperate to achieve their goals.

There were high expectations that you would get the agriculture portfolio at the Centre. Instead, you got the Steel and Heavy Industries Department. How do you feel about that?

There was an expectation among the people of the state that I would get the agriculture portfolio. The agriculture portfolio was given to Shivraj Singh Chauhan, who has shown commitment to agriculture, having served as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh three times.

Agriculture is a sensitive issue in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, where Hindi is dominant. To avoid any communication gaps, they were given this responsibility.

The Steel and Heavy Industries Department also has many challenges. I am prioritizing the issue of electric vehicles. However, it lacks substantial financial backing.

Is the state government obstructing the revival of Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant, KIOCL, etc.?

Looking at the path the state government is taking, there is no doubt about it. They don’t want development. Out of jealousy towards us, they are putting obstacles in the way of development. After becoming a Union Minister, the first file I signed was related to the Kudremukh Iron Ore Company (KIOCL) in Karnataka.

The Congress government allowed activities in the Devadari region in 2015-16. The company registered that land by paying ₹500 crore and also paid ₹193 crore for afforestation. I have now signed a file to provide ₹1,700 crore as working capital for the project. I have also initiated the revival of the Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant. This will benefit both the central and state governments. They stand to lose ₹2,000 crore in revenue and other benefits.

Translated version of Kannada Udayavani Interview by Samaga Sheshadri