Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy defends working out of star hotel

BENGALURU: Chief minister HD Kumaraswamy, in a defiant stand, insisted he will not give up the plush rooms at the Taj West End in Bengaluru where he operates from, despite heavy criticism, especially in the context of his village stay programme.
Although he normally stays at his home in JP Nagar, Kumaraswamy has been operating from a set of suites at the five-star hotel since becoming chief minister.
Defending his decision in Raichur on Wednesday, Kumaraswamy insisted that the choice of lifestyle is a personal decision and he does not need to render an explanation to his critics. He also hit out at the media for “interfering in his personal issues”, claiming he had not billed expenses for the suites to the state exchequer.
“Have I presented any expenditure bill to the government [for reimbursement]?” Kumaraswamy said. “That is a personal issue. Why are there questions about my personal activities? I am not interested in getting a certificate from anyone. I will work according to my conscience.”
The opposition BJP has been taking potshots at the chief minister, ridiculing for him for claiming to be a “son of the soil” while staying at a five-star hotel. Opposition leaders even took exception to freshly constructed amenities — mainly sanitary and bathroom fittings — to ensure the CM has a comfortable time during his village stay programme.
In a tweet, the Karnataka BJP said huge amounts of taxpayers’ money are being spent to ensure Kumaraswamy has a comfortable stay in villages. Reacting to this, Kumaraswamy in Raichur said: “What is wrong in building a lavish toilet? Will I take it home? It will be useful for students once I conclude my village-stay.”