Savadi Alleges Opposition Is Seeking to Implicate MLAs, Ministers and Officials

Karnataka minister Lakshman Savadi said on October 7 that the state government would ask the Election Commission for permission to decide on a proposed increase in milk prices. The Cabinet had considered the matter at its meeting on October 6, but did not reach a decision while the Model Code of Conduct remains applicable.

Speaking to reporters in Athani in Belagavi district, Mr Savadi said the government would send a letter to the commission. If permission is granted, the proposal will return to the Cabinet for consideration before the government announces its decision. If permission is refused, the increase will be considered after the conduct rules cease to apply, he said.

The Model Code of Conduct currently limits government decisions and public announcements that could affect the electoral process. Mr Savadi did not disclose the proposed scale of the milk-price increase or indicate when the government would submit its request.

Mr Savadi also addressed recent comments by chief minister DK Shivakumar, who had urged ministers and officials to exercise caution amid alleged sting operations and accusations involving members of the government. Mr Savadi said opposition parties were attempting to create situations in which legislators, ministers and civil servants could be implicated.

“The opposition parties are weaving a web of deceit to implicate MLAs, ministers and officials,” Mr Savadi said. He added that the chief minister had instructed ministers and officials to act honestly and carefully while performing their duties and to provide good governance.

The remarks were made during continuing political exchanges in Karnataka over alleged sting operations and the conduct of public representatives and officials. The state’s electoral conduct rules remain in force as the dispute over the proposed milk-price decision continues.