Bangalore, Jul 21: Congress in Karnataka on Tuesday, Jul 20 defended the Reddy brothers that they were involved in illegal mining and challenged them to face a CBI probe into the matter.

VS Ugrappa, the former leader of Opposition Congress in the Legislative Council, said that the ministers 'misused' their office, mining permits and were engaged in illegal mining after 'intimidating' officials. He also challenged Reddy's accusations that Congress leaders were also involved in illegal mining by saying that it is left to CBI to decide. He rubbished the claims by Janardhana Reddy that their company, Ombulapuram Mining Corporation's activities were confined to Andhrapradesh.

Ugrappa added that he has the evidence to prove that Yeddyurappa was aware of the 'disappearance' of iron ore from Belekere port. Janardhana Reddy on Tuesday, Jul 20 claimed that he and his brother and Revenue Minister G Karunakara Reddy would step down if there was a 'shred' of evidence against them.

He questioned Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa, why he was afraid of seeking CBI investigation into the issue.

KC Kondaiah, Congress MLC has filed a complaint requesting the disqualification of Janardhana Reddy, Karunakara Reddy and Health Minister B Sreeramulu from their legislature membership. He accused them of attracting 'office of profit' clause.

Kondaiah added that Reddy brothers had entered into a 'working formula' with 40 mines in Bellary district and have been sharing the resources with so many men and machinery operating there.

OneIndia News