Shivamogga :  KS Eshwarappa who announced tendering his resignation after listed as Accused No. 1 in Belagavi based civil works contractor Santosh Patil alleged suicide case has expressed confidence of coming clean from the charges and retaining a berth again in Bommai ministry.

Addressing party workers in a meeting in Shivamogga, he said “I am accused in a suicide case involving contractor Santosh Patil. So, If I continue as minister, it gives the impression that I could influence the probe. So, I have decided to quit my ministerial post.”

Defending his decision to quit the post, he said “BJP central leaders must feel that I have set a new benchmark in the party to ensure that tainted persons would not continue in power. Those who conspired against me may be happy now. But my name will be cleared.”

He said “I am really wondering if I have so many followers. Party workers, legislators and ministers across the state said they are with me in the hard times. This kind of support instilled new confidence in me