Cong launches BJP Hatao, Ktaka Bachao campaign

Addressing the rally, party leaders urged people to oust the B S Yeddyurappa led government, saying it is "immersed" in rampant corruption and has neglected development.

External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said all efforts of the government are directed toward denotification of lands and not people`s welfare. "The entire Government`s efforts is directed towards denotification of lands, neglecting peoples` welfare," he said.

Krishna, who was Chief Minister between 1999-2004, charged the government with destroying `brand Bangalore` built during his tenure with strenuous efforts to boost IT and BT sectors.

"The BJP government is on the verge of decimation and its downfall is expected any time. The days of Congress returning to power in Karnataka are not far away," he said.

Krishna, who was also in-charge of finance department and initiated several measures for fiscal stability, hit out at Yeddyurappa for "poor financial management."

Opposition Congress leader in the assembly Siddaramaiah mounted a blistering attack on Yeddyurappa, whom he described as a "great liar and a coward Chief Minister".

"Yeddyurappa throws a challenge to opposition to come for a debate on corruption charges against his government. But inside the Legislature he ensures no debate takes place."

Siddaramaiah alleged that resources worth Rs one lakh crore has been looted by the BJP government so far, including Rs 50,000 crore in illegal mining alone.

"It is unfortunate that BJP high command, including its leader L K Advani rallied behind Yeddyurappa to cover up its government`s corruption," Siddaramaiah said.

"Yeddyurappa has no moral right to continue in office.

He should quit forthwith. Congress will continue its stir till this government resigns," Siddaramaiah said.

He alleged that Yeddyurappa had avoided entrusting the probe into allegations of corruption against him to Lokayukta as he feared he might land in trouble.

"Hence he opted for a judicial probe," he said.