Ready for any sacrifice for Cauvery; will resign if CM wants: U T Khader

Mangaluru, Sep 23: Stating that his priority is the interest of the people of Karnataka, Congress leader and state minister UT Khader has said that he is ready for any sacrifice for Cauvery cause.

Speaking to media persons here on Thursday, Mr Khader, who is the minister for food, civil supplies and consumer affairs, said that he will not hesitate to resign for Cauvery cause if the chief minister so demands.

Expressing frustration over the adverse verdict of Supreme Court in the water dispute, Mr Khader said that he will follow the directions of chief minister Siddaramaiah, who has decided to convene special legislature session for the issue.

Reacting sharply against the BJP that skipped an all-party meet held convened by the chief minister on Wednesday, Khader said, it shows their double standards.

"It is unfortunate that the BJP has skipped a crucial meeting convened by the chief minister. Political leaders are united forgetting their political differences, but the BJP has skipped that meeting. The chief minister has organized the meet for the people of Karnataka, especially the farmers," Khader said.

Reiterating the demand for intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Cauvery issue. “PM should direct Uma Bharati, Union minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, to prepare a report. The Union ministry should file an affidavit in the Supreme Court if the centre has concern towards Karnataka,” Khader demanded.

Lashing at BJP leaders of Karnataka, Khader said, "Those who held protest demanding inquiry against Siddaramiah's watch issue, need to raise voice against the injustice meted out to Karnataka in Cauvery issue."