KHB 'scam': JD(S) resolves to stand behind its MLA

The JD(S) has decided to stand by its MLA G T Deve Gowda, who has come under the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) scanner in connection with irregularities in land acquisition by the Karnataka Housing Board (KHB) in 2011.

A decision to this effect was taken during the party's legislature party meeting held in Bengaluru on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the party had accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of targetting Gowda as he will be taking on him in the Chamundeshwari constituency in the coming Assembly polls.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, party MLA N H Konaraddi said that the JD(S) will stand by Gowda, irrespective of the outcome of the ACB probe.

The JD(S) legislature party also resolved to launch agitation against the Congress government for using the party flag during the ongoing state tour by Siddaramaiah.

The JD(S) legislators also discussed the BJP's sudden involvement in trying to resolve the Mahadayi river water dispute, at length. The party, however, decided to take a neutral stand over the issue, given that the farmers of the region have been demanding water over the last many years.