Davangere: HDK accuses state government of protecting rioters, criticizes political rivalry

Davangere: Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, has accused the state government of providing relief to those involved in illegal activities.

Addressing presspersons, Kumaraswamy criticized the government’s decision to withdraw the case related to the Hubballi riots, claiming that it was an act of protecting rioters and promoting divisive politics.

He also sparked curiosity by suggesting that he would be the NDA candidate in the upcoming Channapatna by-election, drawing parallels to statements made by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who had declared himself as the candidate.

When asked about the case filed against him by ADGP Lokayukta Chandrashekhar, Kumaraswamy responded that he would answer the allegations in court.

“They have filed thousands of pages of charge sheets against me. This case has been lingering for over 12 years, and now they have filed it again. Let the discussions happen in the court,” he said.

Kumaraswamy refrained from commenting on statements made by Balakrishna regarding the Taj West End controversy, merely stating that he was aware of Balakrishna’s background.

Addressing past remarks by Minister Mahadevappa, Kumaraswamy noted that Mahadevappa had previously called for an investigation into Rs. 600 crore worth of projects.

“Mahadevappa had once demanded an inquiry in the Assembly, and now he is walking alongside the very people he criticized. If there were any files brought to me for approval in 2018, let them investigate. If I took any commission, they are in power now; they can conduct an inquiry,” Kumaraswamy remarked sharply.

On the topic of industrial development in Davangere, Kumaraswamy mentioned that the city, once known for its thriving cotton and oil industries, has seen a decline in industrial growth. He assured that discussions would be held at the central level to revive industries in the region.