Bengaluru: Alleging that the EVMs have played a role in BJP-JDS securing higher-than-expected seats in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar today called for an investigation into the functioning of the EVMs.
Speaking to reporters at Vidhana Soudha and BBMP office, he said, “EVMs must go. Ballot boxes must return. The results must be investigated. When ballot boxes were there, Congress used to get 2/3rds of votes in Madhya Pradesh. But the situation has changed now. The results have already come, but fresh thinking is needed on this.”
Asked about pawning BBMP properties, he said, “There is no pledging of BBMP properties. We are working to secure our properties by surveying them and securing the records.”
Asked about the new BBMP advertising policy, he said a new policy would be announced in the next one week. Thinking is on to evaluate metro pillars for advertising.
Asked if hoardings would be a nuisance for the public, he said, “The officials have been instructed to take all necessary precautions. The flex banners have been banned and about 15,000 flex banners have been removed and complaints lodged against those responsible.”
Replying to a query on BBMP elections on London model, he said, “I don’t know about London model but BBMP elections will be held soon.”
Asked about the stay brought by many including actor Darshan against clearance of raja kaluve encroachment, he said the encroachment would be cleared irrespective of who brings a stay.
Asked about government plans to sell 20,000 acres of land around Bengaluru, he said, “This is false information. The government doesn’t have so much land around Bengaluru. In fact, we are looking at acquiring lands for Peripheral Ring Road, it will be done on 60/40 ratio.”
Asked about increasing fuel prices in Karnataka, he said, “It was BJP which increased petrol prices from Rs 75 to Rs 100. Other states have higher prices than Karnataka. The Excise duty of Central government is the reason for such massive increase in fuel prices.”
The DCM urged the Centre to conduct the NEET exam once again. “The re-exam must be conducted not just for the 1563 students but for all. We are with the affected students.”
“The Guarantee Implementation Committees were formed some time back but many office bearers were not able to assume office due to elections. Senior leader G Krishnappa is heading the Committee in Bengaluru, all vacant positions would be filled in the next 15 days,” he said.
