CM told to withdraw statement issued against Sangh Parivar

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has described BJP, RSS, Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishat members as terrorists, has lost his mind, said former minister V Somanna.

Speaking to reporters, during his visit to the district on Thursday, Somanna said, "Siddaramaiah, who is haunted by the fear of losing the upcoming polls, is issuing irrelevant statements as per his whims and fancies."

"The CM should immediately withdraw his statements issued against the Sangh Parivar. If he has evidence to prove that the organisation members are terrorists, let him come for an open discussion," he said.

Somanna threw an open challenge, saying he would retire from politics if the Congress candidates win in Gundlupet and Nanjangud constituencies in the next elections. "Siddaramaiah has been boasting about Gundlupet and Nanjangud victories in the bypolls. People know the party had misused power for winning the segments. Let, it retain the constituencies in the general elections," he challenged.

'Arrogance is his enemy'

"The Congress won as the JD(S) did not field its candidates. Siddaramaiah is speaking lightly about former CMs B S Yeddyurappa and H D Kumaraswamy and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda, bringing disrepute to his office. His arrogance is his first enemy. Instead of speaking about development works, he is criticising the leaders of other parties during his 'Sadhana Samavesha'," he pointed out.

"The CM is trying to disturb peace in Karnataka and turn it into another Kerala. He is soft towards PFI and other Muslim outfits, for vote bank politics. People will teach a befitting lesson in the next elections," Somanna said.

When questioned if he will contest from Arsikere in the upcoming polls, Somanna said that he will abide by the decision taken by the senior leaders.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the state on January 28 and a rally will be held on January 30.