'Reddy spouse' mining business worth RS 231 cr'

Addressing reporters, he released documents to support his claim that Lakshmi Aruna has done business worth Rs 231 crore in mining since May 2005. “Both the Chief Minister and Reddy should explain the source of the money,” he stated.

“Yeddyurappa has never raised any objection to Janardhan Reddy’s plans in Bellary. This clearly indicates that the Chief Minister is also involved in illegal mining. Moreover, the Chief Minister has recommended to the Centre to sanction fresh mining leases to 17 companies...He (the Chief Minister) should disclose the names of people who greased his palms for this favour,” he stated.

Ugrappa also alleged that Yeddyurappa is setting up an engineering college and a star hotel in Shimoga using money from illegal mining.

‘Disclose names’

The Congress on Sunday dared Chief Minister Yeddyurappa to disclose the names of Union Mfrom the State who have allegedly involved in illegal mining.

“If you (the Chief Minister) have guts, disclose the names...The Congress leaders are ready to face inquiry. It is a crime to conceal details regarding any criminal activity,” the party leader V S Ugrappa told reporters.