Accusing JD(S) MLA Devanand Chavan of trying to tarnish his image, BJP MLA Somanagouda Patil Sasnur has demanded that the former apologise for dragging his name in an alleged telephonic conversation that went viral on Tuesday.

In the audio clip that was shared widely on social media, Mr. Chavan is heard telling a supporter that since Mr. Sasnur is close to Home Minister M.B. Patil, he may join the Congress any time if Mr. Patil asks him.

Asserting that he is a staunch loyalist of the BJP, Mr. Sasnur made it clear that he will not join the Congress. “I will not join the Congress even if former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah requests me,” he said at a press conference on Wednesday. Admitting that he has good relation with Mr. Patil and their late fathers too were in good terms, Mr. Sasnur made it clear that their personal relation does not mean he will join BJP.

Meanwhile, Mr. Chavan has maintained that his voice had been morphed.