M Shivanna (Kote), the JD(S) candidate from the Chamarajanagar (SC) Lok Sabha constituency, has denied allegations that he had entered into a secret pact with a rival candidate to better the latter’s chances.
Shivanna had disappeared ‘mysteriously’ from the hustings two days before the election.
Addressing mediapersons, a teary-eyed Shivanna claimed that he had an unblemished track record in his 35-year-long political career. “I don’t know why people are trying to defame me,” he said. The former minister dared his detractors to prove the allegations.
Shivanna said that his ENT specialist had advised him rest for two days from April 15, as he was suffering from throat infection. Hence, he was away from electioneering.
Blaming a section of the party (JD-S) leaders and the media, Shivanna said that he would bring out the truth once the counting of votes is over on May 16. He would also take up the matter with party supremo H D Deve Gowda, the former minister said. He is also contemplating taking legal action against his detractors and the media.
Ex-CM’s role
Shivanna dismissed allegations that he had been lured with money and hence, he preferred to remain ‘inactive two days before the polls’.
Shivanna said he was well-off and had been helping the needy, if they approached him.
To another query on a former chief minister who reportedly played a role in brokering the deal between him and the rival candidate, Shivanna said, “I have a close rapport with S M Krishna. He is my political guru. However, even when he was appointed the external affairs minister, I kept away from him”. The former minister said, “I have never gone to anybody seeking favours.”