Contractor Sathosh’s death: Min Eshwarappa denies involvement; refuses to resign

Mysuru: Minister of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj K S Eshwarappa said he did not know any Santhosh Patil and denied having any dealing with him. the minister also refuted allegations that he was involved in his death.

Santhosh Patil, a contractor from Belagavi who had leveled corruption and bribery allegations against Eshwarappa, had allegedly killed himself at a hotel in Udupi on Tuesday. He had reportedly left behind a note holding the minister responsible for his death.

Following this, Congress leaders, including KPCC chief D K Shivakumar, had demanded Eshwarappa’s resignation.

However, Eshwarappa not only denied any connection with the case but also refused to accede to the opposition’s demands.

“He (Santhosh) had made allegations against the department. After which a case was filed in the court against him and the private channel for making baseless allegations. they had been served notice by the court. That may have prompted him to take the extreme step,” Eshwarappa said.

Further, the minister said that the department did not give any tender to Santhosh.