Gowda criticised for 'threatening' cop

Former PM says he only questioned the biased attitude of Lokayukta

Speaking to reporters at the inauguration of a procession to mark Kanaka Jayanthi celebrations near Jayachamarajendra circle, he condemned Deve Gowda’s act – telephone Gaonkar and threaten him of dire consequences if he continued with his probe against his family members. “His behaviour is not fit for a stature of a former prime minister,” the MP told mediapersons here.

He also took a dig at JD (S) leader H D Kumaraswamy and K S Eshwarappa for questioning the need of institutions like Lokayukta. The comments of two leaders that Lokayukta has failed to act against big fish and hence fit to be closed is an irresponsible statement.

“It is only because of institutions like Lokayukta that people like Yeddyurappa and other host of influential former ministers were sent behind the bar. Otherwise, is it possible to act against such influential persons,” he opined. He ridiculed that the day was not too far when Kumaraswamy and Eshwarappa would be jailed.

Sharp reaction  
Meanwhile, former prime minister H D Deve Gowda who was in city on Monday reacted sharply to chief minister D V Sadananda Gowda’s statement that Gaonkar was transferred from Lokayukta as the officer sought for it after Deve Gowda threatened him.
The JD (S) supremo admitted that he did speak to Gaonkar and questioned him about the dual standards of the Lokayukta office.

Lokayukta was biased and had dual standards. Lokayukta office served a notice on my son Balakrishne Gowda asking details on his trips to various temples. The BJP leaders like Yeddyurappa, Shobha Karandlaje, K S Eshwarappa have visited more number of temples than my family members.

Why has the Lokayukta not served any notices to these leaders? Law should be equal to all, he said.

Later, Deve Gowda visited Srikanteshwara temple in Nanjangud along with his family members. He declared that the party would go alone to contest the next assembly elections in state.

Earlier, JD(S) leader met the striking sand lorry owners’ and drivers’ association members near Toll gate in Mysore and extended his support to their agitation. He assured to speak about the issue with the minister concerned.