Mysuru: In a Deepavali gift to Congress leaders and workers, the KPCC will release a list of 500 party workers to be nominated as Directors and Members of various State Boards and Corporations this evening, said Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

Speaking to press persons after arriving at Mysore Airport this noon, Shivakumar said he had already signed the list. However, the categorisation was still underway and the list would be released later this evening.

He said the appointments would be made in three phases. The lists of Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen of Boards and Corporations would be released in the next two phases. “Everything is in the final stage of approval. The list of Chairmen will include several MLAs who have to be accommodated in these posts,” he said.

Reacting for the first time to BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra’s reported use of abusive language against Congress workers, the Chief Minister said, “We are indeed the children he was referring to. Vijayendra is a ‘Devendra’ who has come from heaven,” he quipped.

Defending Congress workers who reportedly sent knives by courier to BJP MLC Chalavadi Narayanaswamy’s residence, Shivakumar said their action was a response to the BJP leader’s remarks that Congress workers should be cut to pieces.

“The party workers sent knives to his residence in response to his remarks. I know everything about the BJP,” he said.

Commenting on the BJP’s protest in Bengaluru over rising prices and the bus fare hike, Shivakumar said the Opposition party had every right to stage demonstrations.

“The BJP seems to have turned a blind eye to the excessive blending of ethanol in petrol. This is affecting vehicle parts, mileage and engine efficiency. The Centre has not addressed the issue even though it is causing considerable damage to vehicle engines,” he said, demanding an explanation from the Centre.