Lokayukta stabbing: My resignation not necessary says Ramalinga Reddy

Against the backdrop of the stabbing of Lokayukta Justice Vishwanath Shetty, Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy said that there is no need for him to tender his resignation.  

Karnataka Lokayukta Justice Vishwanath Shetty was stabbed in his chambers by an assailant named Tejraj Sharma on Wednesday. Sharma had registered several complaints  against government officers with the Lokayukta earlier.  

Speaking to reporters at Kalaburagi on Thursday, Reddy said that the metal knife the assailant used, was not detected because of the faulty door frame metal detector.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already asked security officers to take action against those who had been lax among them.    

The minister said that henceforth the Lokayukta's office would be provided 'Parliament-type' security.  

Reddy revealed that the assailant Tejraj Sharma had earlier argued with the Lokayukta Justice Shetty.

"He has misused the Lokayukta's good nature. If the Lokayuta had asked for more security earlier, it would have been provided," Reddy remarked.  

Passing out parade

Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy took part in the passing out parade of the third batch of Special Reserve Sub-inspector, Reserve Sub-inspector and the ninth batch of civil constable of the police training centre.    

Ticket to daughter if worthy

Replying to a question, Reddy said it was true that he wished that his daughter Sowmya should contest elections from Jayanagar Assembly constituency.

"Let the Congress party give her a ticket if she is deemed worthy of it and not just because she is my daughter. She has been active in Mahila Congress and Youth Congress for years, " he added.