HDK announces SIT probe into audio clip row

Bengaluru, Feb. 11: Karnataka chief minister H.D. Kumaraswamy Mon day announced a comprehensive SIT probe into an audio clip he released showing BJP chief B.S. Yeddyurappa in a purported conversation to lure a JD (S) MLA in his alleged attempt to topple the Congress-JDS government.

As the audio row rocked the assembly, Mr Kumaraswamy accepted an “advice” by an emotional Speaker Ramesh Kumar to constitute a Special Investigation Team to probe the episode.

This was to “establish the truth” as his (Kumar’s) name had also been dragged with the charge that he had been “booked” for `50 crore, the Speaker RPT Speaker said.

“Constitute an SIT to establish the truth. Give me relief in 15 days,” a visibly anguished Kumar told Kumaraswamy, after members empathised with the Speaker, saying he was known for his integrity and dignity of his office should be protected.

Kumaraswamy said he was also “pained” at the charge against Kumar and accepted his suggestion to form an SIT.

“I seek your permission to form the SIT for a comprehensive probe to bring out the truth,” he told the chair.

BJP members insisted that the probe be limited to the charge against the Speaker, as otherwise the government was likely to misuse the SIT for ‘political vengeance.’