The Janata Dal (Secular) on Friday described the complainant against Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy in the alleged fraud case as a “fraudster” and demanded a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into him.
JD(S) leaders, led by former MLC HM Ramesh Gowda, also staged a protest outside the Police Commissioner’s office and the Amruthahalli police station in Bengaluru where the first information report against Mr. Kumaraswamy and Mr. Gowda for allegedly demanding Rs 50 crore from a Bengaluru dealer and threatening him with dire consequences if he fails to pay.
Speaking to the media at the party office in Bengaluru, the former MLC accused the complainant, Vijay Tata, of duping many people and demanded the formation of an SIT to ensure justice to the victims. “Hundreds of cases have been filed against him and he is known for fraudulent activities. The cases against him are not only in Karnataka but also registered in Nagpur, Pune, and Mumbai. An SIT should be established to investigate this,” he said.
Suspecting that his phone was being intercepted by the Internal Security Division of the Government, Mr. Gowda said: “I will file a complaint with the Commissioner of Police in this regard, and an investigation will be conducted.”
Pressure from the CMO
He also said Mr. Vijay Tata told him personally at the police station that there is pressure from the Chief Minister’s office (CMO) and some Ministers to press charges against him and Mr. Kumaraswamy. “Let them review the CCTV camera footage from the police station,” he said.
Accusing the seller of long-standing fraudulent practices, Mr. Gowda said: “In 2006-2007 and 2008, he promised to build a European Township and even brought two helicopters to the event. The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) exposed him, saying that there is no land for the project. He advertised flats near Devanahalli, saying he was offering a Benz car to whoever bought the house. He even sold one place to three people. He defrauded many by opening a sofa showroom.” He went on to criticize the police for not putting fire to Mr. Vijay Tata though complains.
Published – October 05, 2024 05:13 am IST