Kumaraswamy unable to digest Shivakumar as Chief Minister, says Sharan Prakash Patil

Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil addressing a media conference at the Congress office in Kalaburagi on Saturday. | Photo Credit: ARUN KULKARNI

Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Union Minister and former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, accusing him of using language unbecoming of his office in his criticism of Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Home Minister Priyank Kharge. Mr. Patil alleged that Mr. Kumaraswamy was unable to digest Mr. Shivakumar’s elevation as Chief Minister.

Addressing a press conference at the Congress office in Kalaburagi, Mr. Patil said Mr. Kumaraswamy’s remarks against the Chief Minister and the Home Minister were inappropriate for a Union Minister and former Chief Minister.

“He is challenging the Home Minister to take action against workers of his party, the Janata Dal (Secular), in connection with the alleged sting operation targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The State government will not bow to such threats. Notices have been issued to the JD(S) workers, and the government has the resolve to deal with such matters,” Mr. Patil said.

Questioning Mr. Kumaraswamy’s frequent interventions in State politics, Mr. Patil asked whether he had no responsibilities to attend to as a Union Minister or if he had been given a portfolio with little work.