Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Jul 22: MLC V S Ugrappa has demanded for immediate resignation of Murugesh R Nirani, state minister for large and medium industries, claiming that the minister is one of the accused in the large scale power theft resorted to by Nirani Sugars and cement factories in Mudhol.

As he is a minister now, there are chances that the related records and evidences would be destroyed. Hence he should resign immediately, failing which the chief minister should drop him from the cabinet, he demanded at a press conference held here on Monday, July 21.

Cases filed against these factories alleging that they were set up illegally, are before the courts. During February this year, these factories were involved in power thefts amounting to Rs 2.81 crores. Investigations are on. After I raised this topic in the legislative council, efforts are being made by the government to remove the minister's name from the list of accused persons, he said.

Energy minister K S Eshwarappa had declared in the assembly that all persons including ministers if found to be involved with power theft, will face stern actions and the government will act without fear or favour in such cases. He should act immediately on his promise. Power is valuable and scarce in the state. Hence strong measures should be initiated against everyone including ministers, involved in the case, he urged the government.