Take action on Lokayukta mining report: Guv to Govt

This is the second time he has sought an explanation from the CM

This is the second time the Governor has sought an explanation from the CM regarding the mining controversy. Following a memorandum from the Congress leaders on December 5, the Governor, on December 9 had directed the CM to clarify the position of the government on mining, according to the secretariat sources.

In his Wednesday's letter, Bhardwaj has referred to the memorandum presented by the members of Dr Ramamanohar Lohia Thinkers Forum wherein they had stated that Lokayukta Justice Santosh Hegde had submitted his enquiry report on mining on December 18 last year. Hegde had also made certain recommendations and suggestions besides directing immediate action under relevant statutes.

The Governor has stated statutory period of three months has expired long back but the government is yet to take action on the Lokayukta's report.  Bhardwaj pointed out to the CM had forwarded a copy of the memorandum presented by the Opposition leaders on the same issue of conflict of interest of ministers (meaning Bellary ministers) and the desirability of complete probity and transparency in public life as this will have a serious bearing on the administration in Karnataka.

Expressing his serious displeasure, the Governor said, "I regret to say that no response has been received from your end in this regard. I, therefore, request you to immediately inform me about the action taken on the Lokayukta report and on my earlier letter on the same issue as this has created much disquiet in the public mind".

He also forwarded a copy of the memorandum submitted by the Forum, to the CM. Sources said the Governor had written to the CM twice seeking details on the alleged land scam of Karnataka Housing Board when Krishnaiah Setty was the Housing Minister. On July 21, the CM had replied to the Governor stating an inquiry has been ordered by the Chief Secretary. The Government will take further action after receiving the inquiry report, the CM had said.

When the Government did not inform the progress made in this regard, the Governor, on October 22, asked the CM furnish the details of the case as well as regarding the investigation. But so far the Governor has not been kept informed about the progress made in this regard.

This is not all. On November 20 and 25 the Governor had written to Yeddyurappa expressing serious dissatisfaction over the controversy surrounding appoint of registrar to universities.

Secretariat sources said all these and more have left the Governor fuming. The CM, instead of calling the Governor to brief him about major developments, has been sending Home Minister V S Acharya. On one occasion, it is said the Governor told Acharya that he prefers Yeddyurappa briefing rather than his Cabinet colleagues as certain issues could be discussed only with him.