CM released money without bringing it to my attention, says Eshwarappa defending his letter

Mysuru: Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj KS Eshwarappa, defending his letter to the governor, said that the issue is not a personal one between him and Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa.

Speaking at a news conference on the issue he explained that the Finance Department sanctions the money allocated in the budget. Our department prepares the blueprint for this, however, the money was allocated to the MLAs without consulting my ministry.

“Rs 65 crores were sanctioned to various gram panchayats in Bengaluru district and a total of Rs 1,299 crore was directly allocated in the State. I questioned the authorities how could they sanction the money directly. The authorities accepted their mistake and apologized,” he said.

“I had written the letter so that henceforth the money is given to us. We will pay to those whom the CM recommends. If this system is broken once, it will set a precedent,” he added.

“I am hearing reports that there is a rift between me and BSY. I have also been called a rebel. I am not a rebel, I have always been loyal to the party. Many ministers have said that I should resign and there should be a change. I will not bend to such things. Some have said something in a news conference and later called me and said that what I have done is correct,” Eshwarappa said.