Addressing a press meet here on Wednesday, Eshwarappa said the party regrets its decision now and apologises to the people for the blunder committed. “We are facing the consequences now,” he said.

He said Sriramulu was advised not to resign from the party, but the latter didn’t heed the advice. There is no question of reinducting him into the party now, he added.
“Bellary was under the grip of fear till now. The State government is committed to dispel any apprehensions among the people,” Eshwarappa said.

“It is our wish that those who have won the election on the lotus symbol should canvas for the party candidate. While some people realise their mistakes early, others take time. The party will give time to such people to mend their ways,” he said.

Eshwarappa expressed the confidence that the party government would complete its term of five years and that it would secure more seats in the next election to give good governance.