Senior Congress leader and Shivajinagar MLA R. Roshan Baig, who was suspended from the party on June 18 on charges of anti-party activities, on June 19 said he was still a disciplined soldier of the Indian National Congress and not “Siddu Congress.”
While Mr. Baig over the past few days has been accusing the State party leaders of being responsible for the party’s drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls, his suspension also comes in the backdrop of his alleged role in the I Monetary Advisory (IMA) scam that has left thousands of investors in dire straits.
Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, he said his comments against the party leaders were the truth and also the opinion of party workers. “What I spoke is the truth and if speaking the truth is anti-party activity, let it be. I have not spoken against our AICC president Rahul Gandhi,” he said.
“In a democracy, such open and transparent discussions (referring to his comments against leaders) are required to strengthen the party. Closed-door discussions within the four walls of a hall will not help.”
“Congress leaders in Mandya openly campaigned for Independent candidate Sumalatha; in Tumkuru, former MLA Rajanna worked against the coalition candidate H.D. Deve Gowda; in Kolar, Congress leaders openly announced they will defeat K.H. Muniyappa, a senior Dalit leader; Ramesh Jharkoli has been continuing his tirade against the party. But no action against these people. Why action only against me? For speaking the truth,” he said.
He said he will discuss with senior leaders Ramalinga Reddy, K.H. Muniyappa, Mallikarjuna Kharge and H.K. Patil and supporters. “After that, I will take a call whether I need to go to Delhi,” he said.
