Let Lokayukta call in CBI, we won't: Minister

In an interaction with Deccan Herald, Suresh Kumar had this to say about the ongoing stand-off legislature.

Why is the government not for a CBI probe?

The Congress had never sought a CBI probe in its notice to take up the illegal mining issue under Rule 60 which was later converted into Rule 69.

It wanted the Lokayukta to be strengthened and Justice Santosh Hegde to withdraw the resignation. Now both the demands have been met.

The Congress on Tuesday placed a new demand - ie., to refer the matter to the CBI, which is not acceptable to us. The Lokayukta can’t probe into an issue which has inter-State ramification.

The Lokayukta, once gets additional authority, can seek the help of any agency including the CBI to probe any case. He can do so in case of the illegal mining too. The Opposition has expressed immense faith in the Lokayukta.

Why the resistance to hand over the investigation to the CBI?

We know the antecedents of the CBI. We know it has handled the Bofors, JMM, Mayawati’s accumulation of wealth cases besides the Bhopal gas tragedy. We want a sincere inquiry into the mining.

Why do you think the Opposition is pressuring for a CBI probe?

The Opposition has already projected the government as the accused in the illegal mining scam. Both the Opposition and the ruling parties want to stop illegal exploitation of ore. Now it looks they have calculations rather than concern. They want to use the issue as a political weapon.

Is there a mid way to solve the crisis?

There is no mid way because the Opposition is not ready to give up the issue. It is not ready to raise any other important issue including shortage of electricity and facilities to flood-hit victims. The time of the Legislature is wasted.
Many important Bills are pending for consideration.