Karnataka Minister KS Eshwarappa to quit amid row over suicide of contractor

Karnataka Minister KS Eshwarappa who got caught in a huge controversy following allegations of corruption and a role in the suicide of a contractor, said he will step down from his post Friday evening. “Tomorrow I’m handing over the resignation letter to the Chief Minister. I thank you all for co-operation,” he told reporters. “I decided to resign because I don’t want to put in an uncomfortable situation those who helped me rise to this position, such as seniors in the party, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai and our national leaders,” he added.
Mr Eshwarappa’s declaration came hours after Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai assured his continuing as part of the cabinet. The decision, he told NDTV in an exclusive interview, will depend on the outcome of the preliminary inquiry. Mr Eshwarappa was also not willing to step down, and expressly told reporters that if “they are asking for my resignation, I won’t give one”.