JOIN USSpeaking to media representatives during his first visit to the City after the debacle in the Lok Sabha elections, he said, “Defeats cannot deter me. Those who are expecting me to retire from active politics will be disappointed.”
The former chief minister alleged that the BJP won the Shimoga seat thanks to money and liquor that was distributed among the voters. “Innocent people who were not aware of the value of their votes, were purchased here. Even BJP leaders, including Minister Eshwarappa and MLA Belur Gopalakrishna, have admitted to this,” he charged.
He also alleged that the BJP spent over Rs 100 crore to win the election. “Without distributing a paisa, I was able to get 4.30 lakh votes, only 26,000 votes less than the BJP candidate. This shows the affection people have towards me,” he said.
When quizzed about the possibility of Congress high command using his experience and skills in strengthening the party in the State, he said, “I am ready to accept responsibility.”
Speaking of the dissidence in State unit of BJP, he said that differences among the leaders has put the stability of the Government at stake. However, he ruled out the possibility of the Congress indulging in attempts to de-stabilise the Government.