Bhardwaj seeks 'unconditional apology' from K'tka CM

In yet another sign of fissure in his relations with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, Karnataka Governor H R Bhardwaj has sought an "unconditional apology" from Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa over his reported remarks on illegal mining issue.

Bhardwaj sought an 'unconditional apology' citing some newspaper reports, attributing certain remarks to Yeddyurappa on Lokayukta's recommendations regarding recovery of money from former Chief Minister N Dharam Singh in a matter relating to mines leased during his term. But Yeddyurappa and his party are unfazed, saying he had not made any allegation targetting Bhardwaj, who has frequently locked horns with the BJP government.

In response to the Governor's letter seeking apology, Yeddyurappa said "I have always stated, even in the Assembly, that this decision was taken by the former Governor", he said without naming Bhardwaj's predecessor Rameshwar Thakur, adding reports stating he has accused Bhardwaj "is far from the truth and completely misleading." Yeddyurappa said he only questioned the decision taken by Thakur, despite recommendation by Lokayukta to recover around Rs 23 crore from Singh.

In his missive to Yeddyurappa, Bhardwaj said Thakur had dismissed the Lok Ayukta report by a "speaking order" on June 23 last year. Bhardwaj noted that he had assumed office as governor only on June 29. The governor termed Yeddyurappa's reported accusations as "irresponsible and intimidating statements".

"In order to divert public opinion, I feel that you have chosen to use intemperate language against the governor while ignoring rampant corruption indulged in by some of your ministers", Bhardwaj said. "Therefore, for dragging the Governor into this, in such objectionable manner, you owe me an unconditional apology".

Yeddyurappa did not respond to the governor but said he has always held Bhardwaj in high esteem and he had never made any personal remarks against him. But reacting furiously, state BJP president K S Eshwarappa severely criticised Bhardwaj for "repeatedly targetting" Yeddyurappa, who has clarified he was referring to Rameshwar Thakur and not the present governor.

"We may have to speak a different language against him (Bhardwaj)", he warned. "The governor is spoiling the sanctity of the governor's office", Eshwarappa said campaigning in Kadur Assembly constituency which goes to the bypolls on Sept 13. "One has to ask Rameshwar Thakur", he added.