Several Congress leaders involved in Bitcoin scam: CM Bommai

Bommai said Congress leaders should think about their own involvement in the scam

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Wednesday said several Congress leaders were involved in the Bitcoin scam and more facts about the scam will come out soon.

The CM is in Delhi for two days to meet Union Ministers regarding state projects. "Several Congress leaders are involved in the scam. Congress leaders should first think about their involvement in the scam before making false allegations against the BJP leaders, the CM told media.

"The state government is ready to hold any probe. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and CBI are already investigating the scam. There is no question of protecting anybody. Whoever is involved will be booked. Let us wait for the probe to be over. Once investigation is complete, the truth will be known," Bommai said.

Reacting to a question on former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's allegation that the CM was more worried about the scam, he said, "Siddaramaiah is also Leader of Opposition in Legislative Assembly. Before making false allegations, he should know the facts first. As a responsible leader, he should not make baseless allegations against others."

However, the CM refused to react to Congress leader Priyanka Kharge's latest statement that the scam will "pose a threat to the CM position". "Priyanka Kharge does not have full facts about the issue. He should first know the facts before talking about the issue," the CM said.

The CM said the party top brass have not sought any details from him on the Bitcoin scam. "On my request, PM Modi has given an appointment. On Thursday, I will meet him and discuss state developmental issues. I will invite PM Modi to launch some projects in the state," the CM said.

"I have also asked for an appointment of party president J P Nadda. If I get an appointment, I will meet them to discuss state politics," he said.

On Wednesday, Bommai met Union Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi and said, "the state will soon start operation of a coal mine in Mandakari in Odisha since the mine got all required clearances." He said Karnataka sought more coal from coal fields located in Maharashtra for which Joshi responded positively.

Clarifying that there was no shortage of coal in Karnataka, Bommai said the state is working to stock more dry fuel for the future.

On the Mekedatu project, the CM said he would discuss the issues with the legal team on Thursday. The issue was already discussed in Cauvery Management Board and approval is expected soon, he said.

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