Poojary must have used Modi’s name ‘by mistake’: Khader

Mangaluru: District-in-charge minister U T Khader has defended senior Congress leader B Janardhana Poojary’s statement that leaders like PM Modi are needed to eradicate corruption. The former union minister’s statements had earlier sent shock waves in political circles. However, Mr Khader defended Poojary by saying that the latter had said that Modi was not right.

Speaking at a press meet on Sunday March 17^th, Mr Khader said, “It is hard to believe that Poojary has said something like that. BJP leaders are the ones who once used abusive words, insulted and criticised Janardhana Poojary. Instead of saying Rahul Gandhi will become prime minister and eradicate corruption, Poojary might have mistakenly used Modi’s name.”

Let BJP support Poojary during this Lok Sabha election from Mangaluru constituency if they respect them. If they do so, Congress will not field any candidate, he said.

“The upcoming polls will be the election to save Indian Constitution. People need to bless Congress party. None of the problems of the district have made sound in the parliament for the last 10 years and there are no funds allotted from the central government for the district for the purpose of development,” pointed out Khader.

Responding to a query on leaving Udupi-Chikkamagluru and Uttar Kannada seats to JD(S), the minister replied, “It is the high command’s decision and we respect it. There were demands by Congress representatives to retain the ticket for Congress but it was a decision taken by the high command.”

Speaking on the candidate for Mandya constituency Mr Khader said, “Nikhil Kumaraswamy is the candidate from Mandya whom the Congress will support. Nikhil’s victory is equal to the victory of Congress. Congress will show full-fledged support to Nikhil Kumaraswamy.”