Bangalore: The All-India Progressive Janata Dal (AIPJD), led by former Deputy Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has demanded the dismissal of Excise Minister C. Chennigappa in view of the seizure of a large quantity of liquor at Koratagere in Tumkur district.

The liquor was being transported purportedly for distribution among voters, and the matter has been brought to the notice of the State Election Commission. The Koratagere Assembly constituency is represented by Mr. Chennigappa.

Addressing presspersons on Thursday, AIPJD Secretary General M. Raghupathy referred to the allegation that the Minister built up stocks of liquor for distribution among voters. He said the Election Commission should order an inquiry and send a team to Koratagere.

State Election Commissioner M.R. Hegde told The Hindu that he had sought information from the officials concerned. Action against those who stored the liquor will be taken, he said.

Mr. Raghupathy said Chief Minister N. Dharam Singh should immediately dismiss the Excise Minister or relieve him of the important portfolio. pHe exuded confidence that the AIPJD will do well in the elections. Although the larger aim of the party is to ensure the defeat of the Janata Dal (S) in the elections, it expects at least 50 per cent of its candidates to win. Mr. Raghupathy said the Congress will do well in many constituencies owing to the support extended to it by the AIPJD and the AHINDA (federation of minorities, backward classes and Dalits) movement launched by Mr. Siddaramaiah.

`Save Bangalore'

Mr. Raghupathy said the AIPJD will launch a "Save Bangalore" campaign soon after the panchayat elections to draw the attention of the authorities to the poor infrastructure in the city.

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