Kumaraswamy launches indefinite fast

Bangalore - 09 July 2011 (PTI): Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD-S leader H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday began an indefinite fast here pressing for a CBI probe into ruling BJP's charge that his family members amassed illegal wealth to the tune of Rs. 1,500 crore.

Mr. Kumaraswamy, son of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, accompanied by thousands of JD(S) workers marched from his party office to the Freedom Park, the venue of his fast.

He told reporters the fast could be one of the first of its kind in the state wherein a former Chief Minister had been forced to undertake such a protest demanding a CBI probe into his own family's assets.

He said the allegations targeted a former prime minister (Deve Gowda), a former chief minister (himself) and a former state minister (his brother H.D. Revanna) who have been in politics for more than five decades.

The BJP had last month brought out a 'charge sheet' accusing Mr. Kumaraswamy's family of owning Rs. 1,500 crore illegal assets.

"I am confident of passing through this trial by fire. I value my personal prestige and honour above my life," Mr. Kumaraswamy said, adding the agitation was not for any personal reason but only to bring out the truth.

Referring to his charges of nepotism made against Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa over land denotifications, he said, "I have already brought out documentary evidences against Chief Minister and his family members."

Mr. Yeddyurappa was "scared" of ordering the CBI probe as he was afraid that one day he might also have to face a similar inquiry over charges of corruption, nepotism and favouritism, Mr. Kumaraswamy, who had headed a coalition government with BJP in 2006, said.