Bhardwaj wants action against two Ministers

NEW DELHI/Bangalore: Even as the Opposition dharna in the Karnataka legislature entered the second day on Tuesday, part of the political action shifted to New Delhi where Governor H.R. Bhardwaj met President Pratibha Patil and reportedly discussed the issue of illegal mining in the State with her.

He is likely to meet Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Wednesday and submit a report relating to the alleged involvement of the Bellary Ministers in illegal mining.

Speaking to journalists, Mr. Bhardwaj, who termed his breakfast meeting with Ms. Patil a "courtesy call" on completing one year in office, said that he had asked Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa to take action against two Ministers involved in mining. Without naming them, he questioned their continuation in the Cabinet.

The Governor said: "The Chief Minister is a person who realises the problem. I told him to take action against them. He said he needs time."

"It is a big issue of integrity and probity of those in high office," Mr. Bhardwaj said, adding "this is only a controversy regarding four-five Ministers who are indulging in illegal mining and making huge profits."

To another question, he said he had no powers to take action against the Ministers. "I am a Governor. I know my responsibilities."

Meanwhile, no solution appears to be in sight to end the stalemate in the Legislature, with both sides hardening their positions.

The Opposition legislators continued their overnight dharna in both Houses. This resulted in the disruption of official proceedings for the entire day and the Houses had to be adjourned for the day.