Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Jul 23: Karnataka chief minister, Siddaramaiah, lost his cool when referring to allegation of corruption in Indira Canteen scheme of the state government, levelled by BJP's N R Ramesh. Speaking aloud his impatience at the leader's comment, Siddaramaiah cursed Ramesh for trying to find fault with such a noble scheme.

He made this remark without directly naming Ramesh, after taking part in the inaugural of underpass built by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike near K H B Colony on Magadi main road on Saturday July 22. "There are some people who find only mistakes in everything we do. These people accuse us of indulging in political gimmick when we take up separate flag for Karnataka, propose to build steel bridge, supply water to slums, keep Basavanna's picture in office or celebrate birth anniversary of Kempe Gowda. I can only say that these people have no knowledge of Indian Constitution. There is a saying in Kannada that people suffering from jaundice can see only yellow colour everywhere. Our critics are like them," he stated.

"Under Indira Canteen scheme, we propose to open food outlets for the benefit of hungry, poor people, where food will be served at very reasonable rates. I am surprised that people find fault here too, and come up with false allegations. I do not mind people lying here and there, but I cannot tolerate falsehood in such large quantities," he thundered.

Siddaramaiah pointed out that the person who made allegation has said that corruption to the extent of Rs 65 crore has been committed in a scheme with a total outlay of Rs 100 crore. "Being a lawyer, I can vouch that this is a fit case for filing defamation. But I have no time to do that. Any of you can go to court," he said, pointing out to Congress activists and general public who had assembled at the programme.

Bengaluru development minister, K J George, housing minister, M Krishnappa, MLAs Suresh Kumar and Priya Krishna as well as city mayor, G Padmavati, were present.