Won't quit Congress, says Athani MLA

Athani MLA Mahesh Kumathalli, who had skipped the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting, on Friday said that there was no question of him deserting the party.

Speaking to media persons in Athani, Kumathalli, a staunch follower of former minister Ramesh Jarkiholi, clarified that he was certainly not happy with the recent developments in the party but had not raised any dissent. He added that the party leaders would set the things right.

Giving clarification for his absence at CLP meeting, the Athani MLA said that he was suffering from a severe backache and was at Mumbai for treatment. Kumathalli asserted that he and the five-time legislator Ramesh Jarkiholi would not quit the party. He added that the Cong-JD-S coalition government under Kumaraswamy would complete its full term.