Karnataka: Ex-CM Basavaraj Bommai demands Siddaramaiah to quit CM post

Hubballi: Haveri MP and Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has asked Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to resign immediately if he wishes to maintain his reputation.

“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has established a distinct identity in Karnataka’s political landscape. However, to maintain that image, he must uphold moral integrity. If he fails to set an example, he will be counted among others with similar issues, " Bommai told reporters in Hubballi on Thursday.

“A complaint has been lodged against the CM, following which the Governor had granted permission for prosecution. The High Court and the Sessions Court have allowed the case to proceed. The case is getting stronger. Siddaramaiah must carefully consider the next steps to maintain public trust,” he said.

When asked about the Valmiki Corporation scam, Bommai mentioned that the scandal had reached a crucial stage.

“Initially, a charge sheet was submitted without including the name of ministers or officials, with attempts made to cover it up. However, since investigations by the CBI and ED are ongoing, they (the government) is forced to file a proper charge sheet,” he said.

Speaking about the Shiggaon by-election, Bommai said that a candidate for the Shiggaon by-election would be selected soon. “Many aspirants have already submitted applications, and a decision will be made after thorough scrutiny,” he added.

Later speaking to reporters at Haveri Bommai said that all officers appointed to the Lokayukta, including ADGPs, CPIs, and PSIs, are appointed through the Home Ministry and the Chief Minister's office.

“To uphold your moral integrity, cooperate with the investigation by resigning. If the investigation clears you within three months, there is still an opportunity to return as the Chief Minister," he said.