Udupi : Those who are criticizing me, first mind on their duties. I am concentrating on my duty to win the elections, said Jayaprakash Hegde, Former MP and an independent candidate for the coming Karnataka MLC elections.

He was addressing a press meet at the Press Club on Tuesday, 15th December, 2015. The reason for conducting the press meet was that some of the Congress leaders criticized him as per the media reports. He did not have the habit of criticizing others. There is no need to give commands to me.

Pratapchandra Shetty had earlier written letters that he will not be going to be candidate for the forthcoming MLC elections. Why is it necessary to write like that, he asks. I have not violated any rules nor violating the party norms. High command should take action against Pratapchandra Shetty that he didn’t participate during the elections earlier not participated in the party meetings. He actively participated in all the meetings and canvassing in the elections. But taking action on him has pained him.

He took part actively during the party activities. Some of the party leaders were criticizing him which is not fair for them. When Blasius D’Souza and Pratapchandra Shetty contested in 2003 MLC election, he supported Pratapchandra Shetty. But during the MP elections, Shetty did not support him. I had done excellent work when the formation of Udupi District and during the time of Fisheries Minister. Why the Congress is giving me punishment, he could not understand.

He said in politics, achievements greater than power. He had not lobbied for any post. During the Kumarswami’s ministry, he was offered ministry. But he neglected then. He won support from his fans when he was Independent candidate rather any post. He will remain in Independent for the hopes of the people at large.

Asking with his intention to join in other parties, he said he will be happy to be Independent. First he wanted to win the election. He got more publicity than he was a Minster. He enjoys as Independent without joining any parties. It is important that what you have done rather than a minister, he said.

He was confident to winning in the elections which will be ahead by Pratapchandra Shetty by a margin votes.
Bhujanga Shetty, Godwin Menezes, Rehematullah and others were present during the press meet held at Press Club.