Sadananda Gowda evasive on Lokayukta

BANGALORE: Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda remained evasive when asked whether the state government would withdraw the name of Justice Bannurmath for the post of Lokayukta, who is said to be embroiled in a controversy.“I would not comment on the issue now. We have recommended the name of Justice Bannurmath to the Governor. Let’s see what decision he takes, after which the state government will act in an appropriate manner,” the  chief minister said while speaking to the media here on Saturday.He refused to comment when asked whether the government did not study the antecedents and track record of Justice Bannurmath, who also suffers from the same infirmity as Justice Shivraj Patil.  “There is a panel to discuss the names of the candidates for the Lokayukta. The decision to recommend the name of Justice Bannurmath was taken after consulting the members of the panel. Let’s see how things take shape,” Gowda said. The chief minister admitted that the Governor had sought some clarification on the issue and the same has been furnished to him. “I will not say till what I hear from the Governor,” he said when asked if the government is contemplating withdrawal of Justice Bannurmath.  Meanwhile, the state government has issued showcause notices to mayor and deputy mayor of Belgaum City Corporation for acting in a manner that hurt the sentiments of Kannadigas.  “Action to be taken will be decided after government receives their reply,” the chief minister said.