Will respond to critics at appropriate time, says Satish Jarkiholi

Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi on Saturday said he would respond at an appropriate time to those allegedly conducting a smear campaign against him.

Speaking to presspersons in Belagavi on Saturday, he said those spreading misinformation lacked historical awareness and knowledge. “We have been in public struggles for the past 30 to 40 years. Let them continue; we will respond when the time comes,” he said.

On the Ballari Nala issue, Mr. Jarkiholi acknowledged that it had affected development and farmers’ economic progress. The nala’s narrow width was contributing to the problem, he said, adding that the government had sought a report and would decide on further action after receiving it.

The inauguration of the Deputy Commissioner’s office building and the launch of work on the Belagavi flyover were scheduled for the first week of November, he said.

On the demand for additional funds for Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations in Belagavi, Mr. Jarkiholi said he would discuss the matter with the Deputy Commissioner and bring it to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s notice. He stressed the need for proper arrangements to provide food to Kannada enthusiasts attending the celebrations.

Referring to Mr. Shivakumar’s statement that an unidentified person from North India had allegedly tried to trap him, Mr. Jarkiholi said the Chief Minister had already cautioned leaders to remain vigilant. No such person had approached him, he added.

He denied reports of a secret meeting with former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, saying their meetings had been related to official work.

On contractors’ bills, he said payments would be made based on eligibility and the applicable rules, without discrimination. He added that delays had occurred under previous governments, too.

Supporting the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in Delhi, Mr. Jarkiholi said the demonstrators should be allowed to exercise their right to protest. He claimed that many participants had previously voted for the BJP and had called on the Union government to explain their opposition to the party.

Mr. Jarkiholi expressed confidence that the district and taluk panchayat elections would be held in December and said his party was prepared to contest them.