Had to reject corrupt list: Karnataka Chief Minister

BENGALURU: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday defended the cabinet’s decision to reject probationary gazetted officers selected by Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) in 2011 and to commence the recruitment process afresh on a day when JD (S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy backed protests by those who made it to the controversial list.

Speaking to media persons here, he said “The report of CID (criminal investigation department) has pointed at corruption (in selection of officers). How can we completely deny an investigating agency's report about corruption? We cannot accept the list by rejecting the law department advice, the advocate general's opinion and the CID report. Despite knowing that corruption (had taken place), if we accept it, it will send a wrong signal to the people. All those who have not been selected will also complain that justice has not been done to them. So, we will have to take action as per the law and we have done accordingly.”

Meanwhile, Mr Kumaraswamy who addressed the protesters said, “I will request the government not to stand on prestige. The government is for delivering justice, but in the name of delivering justice, it has been unfair to these candidates.”