BENGALURU: Former corporator and Congress leader S H Padmaraj allegedly threatened former minister and BJP leader K Gopalaiah of life saying that he would kill the latter when on his way to the Vidhana Soudha or inside the house. The incident occurred on Tuesday night and the provocation is said to be old rivalry. An FIR has been registered in this regard at the Kamakshipalya police station.
Padmaraj had represented Basaveshwaranagar ward as corporator in the erstwhile BBMP council and had switched to the Congress last April. He appeared before the police on Wednesday and recorded his statement.
Gopalaiah visited the Kamakshipalya police station last night while four Hoysala patrol vehicles were stationed in front of Padmaraj’s house. The former corporator called Mahalakshmi Layout MLA Gopalaiah and demanded money and even threatened him of life if he did not agree to give it. “I have helped out Padmaraj on several occasions and I was hurt that he threatened me in this manner”, Gopalaiah said.
Speaking to Public TV, Gopalaiah said, “I have spoken to the ACP and DCP and sought protection since there is a threat to my life. The police are outside Padmaraj’s house since last night to serve a notice, but he is not venturing out. I know Padmaraj for many years and I don’t owe him any money. I don’t know why he did this. I have also helped his family. Strict action should be taken against him as he has issued death threats”.
Gopalaiah also met Assembly Speaker U T Khader and lodged a complaint against Padmaraj at the Speaker’s office. He also brought the issue to the attention of Opposition leader R Ashoka and BJP state president B Y Vijayendra.
Meanwhile, Padmaraj dismissed it as a minor issue which is being blown up. “I have given cash and cheque towards some contracts. Why will I issue death threats? I can’t disclose how much money I have given. Let him complain to the President too. I am ready to swear at any temple also”.