Hubballi: The state government will not modify its decision to recommend the candidature of Justice Vishwanath Shetty for Lokayukta’s post, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced at Gadag on Thursday.
He told the media the government’s choice was supported by leaders of all political parties and therefore it would not renege on the selection of Justice Shetty.
Besides, Justice Shetty did not face any serious charges while the one about acquisition of site in judicial layout was faced by 90 per cent of high court judges.
“It is not possible to change our decision, and he will be the next Lokayukta,” he added.
On the issue of withdrawal of conservation reserve tag to Kappattagudda hills in Gadag district, he said the deputy commissioner would be directed to seek the opinion of local villagers in this regard. Besides, the government would reconsider its decision at a meeting of Karnataka State Wildlife Board after obtaining a report from the district administration.
On the deadline set by Siddalinga Swami of Tontadarya Math to restore the conservation reserve tag, he said the government would take the seer’s statement seriously.
Mr Siddaramaiah assured that the government would take a decision soon on withdrawal of cases registered against farmers involved in Mahadayi movement.
Reacting to a recommendation made by police officials to banish two farmers from Dharwad district in connection with violence in Navalgund taluk, he clarified that the government would not take such step against agitators.
Hiremath petitions governor against Justice Shetty
Samaj Parivarthana Samudaya founder president S.R. Hiremath has submitted a memorandum to Governor Vajubhai Vala, urging him not to approve the candidature of Justice Vishwanath Shetty for the post of Lokayukta.
Supporting his petition to the Governor with records running into 66 pages on land purchased by Justice Shetty allegedly in violation of the law, he said the Chief Minister should act in a responsible manner by appointing an honest person to the anti-corruption institution.
Alleging that Justice Shetty purchased seven acres of agricultural land illegally in the name of his children at Gundiganahalli near Yelahanka in Bengaluru, he charged that housing minister Krishnappa had facilitated the deal.
