Cong leaders creating problems for CM: Kharge

Union Railway Minister Mallikarjuna Kharge said on Friday that a section of leaders in the ruling party and opposition parties in the State are trying to unnecessarily create problems for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Speaking to reporters, he said that Siddaramaiah’s administration has managed to become effective despite several constraints. “Instead of cooperating with him, leaders in both the ruling party and in the opposition are trying to pull the rug from under his feet,” he said, but refused to reveal the names of these leaders.

“I cannot name anyone at this juncture,” he said. “But, it is not good to create problems for the Chief Minister, considering that the interest of the State is at stake.”

Asked about allegation that Infrastructure Development Minister Santosh Lad is involved in illegal mining, Kharge said Siddaramaiah and KPCC president G Parameshwara have already clarified the issue and that he has nothing new to add. 

He also said the State government has extended its full cooperation to take up railway projects in the State. Siddaramaiah has agreed to release the State’s share of funds required for railway projects, he said.