For the second time in as many days, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy’s helicopter force-landed at Hassan, unable to navigate through stormy weather.
The Chief Minister and his team were on their way to participate in the poll campaign in Ullal. But when it became impossible for the copter to cross the ghats, the pilot made a futile bid to land in Sakaleshpur. But the inclement weather forced him to return to Hassan.
After getting down from the copter, the Chief Minister had his breakfast and proceeded to Ullal by road.When quizzed by the reporters as to why he was adamant on flying by helicopter despite force-landings and unexpected snags, Kumaraswamy defended his decision by saying: “Evening journey is not favourable. However, I have faith in God and with people’s affection and blessings, nothing can go wrong”.
Meanwhile, confusion prevailed amongst officials and people about Chief Minister’s travel plans. While some thought he was going to Udupi, others said he was going to Sakaleshpur.
Deputy commissioner Ashwathnarayan Gowda, SP Panduranga Rane, ASP Pangam, ZP president Huchchegowda, vice-president Mahadevamma and all ZP members were at the helipad to receive the Chief Minister.