Karnataka assembly adjourned sine die amid oppn dharna

Irked by the persistent demand by Congress and JDS whose dharna entered second day, Yeddyurappa stuck to his guns declaring that the "baseless allegations" made against him did not warrant any probe and he would order none.

An equally adamant Opposition, led by Congress leader Siddaramaiah refused to withdraw the dharna till their demand was met and shouted slogans against the government with the House adjourned twice.

When the House reassembled, the Opposition refused to relent even as a dozen bills were passed amid slogan shouting. Speaker K G Bopaiah then adjourned the House sine-die.

When the House began proceedings, Siddaramaiah, who trooped in along with his MLAs, and JDS members alleged that Yeddyurappa had reneged on his statement made two days ago that he was ready for any probe.

The Opposition demanded that the issue of donations received by Preranana Education Trust (managed by Yeddyurappa's two sons, B Y Raghavendra and B Y Vijayendra) from Jindal Steel company and others be referred to CBI and also wanted the chief minister to quit forthwith.

"We do not have faith in CBI. All know what happened to the Aarushi Talwar murder case which the CBI investigated. CBI is being politicised by Congress," Law Minister S Suresh Kumar said, rejecting the Opposition demand.

Yeddyurappa said he has not extended any favours to Jindal company in lieu of donations and asked the opposition to bring documentary evidence, it it had any.

"Jindal Steels has made huge investments, but so far have not received any mining lease. My government is now going to grant them one," Yeddyurappa said.

Accusing the Opposition of destabilising the government since a long time, Yeddyurappa said the opposition is continuing dharna for the sake of publicity.

"I don't need to learn any lessons or hear any sermon from those who looted the coffers of this state. Under no circumstance will I order any inquiry," he said.

Siddaramaiah slammed the government for the rigid stand over the issue and said the opposition has produced proof that donations were received after showing favours to Jindal company and also Adarsh Developers.

"It is illegal gratification. If there is no substance in our allegations, why are you afraid of a CBI probe? This government is immersed in corruption and Karnataka ranked number one in corruption under Yeddyurappa rule," he said.