Karnataka: No decision yet on tickets to Janata Dal(S) rebels, says Dr G Parameshwar

Bengaluru: Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President Dr G Parameshwar said no decision has been taken regarding giving tickets to the seven suspended Janata Dal (Secular) legislators who are joining the party 'unconditionally'.

Talking to reporters here on Friday, he said the Assembly polls were far away and the pros and cons would be discussed at the time of distributing tickets after seeking the opinion of the defeated Congress candidates in the seven Assembly constituencies in 2013 elections. "If the situation warrants we will take these JD(S) legislators into confidence (in case they are denied tickets). Ultimately, the aim is to bring back our party to power and that is possible if winnable candidates are given tickets".

Chamarajapet JD(S) legislator Zameer Ahmed Khan had claimed that AICC Vice-President Rahul Gandhi had promised tickets to all seven legislators who would be joining the Congress party in December.

Asked about reported opposition from Congress Floor Leader in Lok Sabha M Mallikarjun Kharge to giving the ticket to Bhima Naik, Akhanda Srinivasamurthy and Iqbal Ansari, Dr Parameshwar denied that any discussion was held on distribution of tickets. "I am not aware of what Mr Kharge said but all seven JD(S) legislators are joining the party without imposing any conditions".

Training his guns on the BJP for accusing the state government of being corrupt, he demanded that BJP leaders release documents to prove the cases of corruption. “The Congress had released documents to prove the alleged involvement of BJP chief Yeddyurappa in corruption. This rule is applicable to them too".