Mysore/Mysuru: Stating that though the literacy rate which was just 16 percent at the time of Independence, has now grown to 78 percent, Opposition leader and former Chief Minister Siddharamaiah bemoaned that with the rise in literacy, peace and harmony in the society is falling.

He was speaking during  the interaction which followed after the release of the book “Siddharamaiah Aadalitha: Neeti Nirdhara” (Siddharamaiah administration: Police decisions) at the programme organised by Bengaluru’s Janamana Pratishtana at Kalamandira here on Saturday.

Pointing out that the book contains articles by 27 writers, which is an  independent and fair assessment  of his (Siddu) tenure as the Chief Minister, Siddharamaiah maintained that the book is not his felicitation volume and he had not visited or called on any of the writers before the publication of the book.

Asserting that he believes in the Constitution and Democracy, Siddharamaiah said that he had got translated many of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s works and speeches into Kannada, which should be read by all.

Bemoaning that the standards of Democracy is falling day by day, with money and muscle power ruling the roost, he opined that apart from politicians, the people too should be                            blamed for this.

Contending that the BJP does not believe in Democracy and reservation for the oppressed sections, the former CM accused the BJP of privatising everything. Noting that unemployment is increasing day by day, he wondered what all has happened to ‘Make in India’ campaign at a time when imports have largely exceeded exports.

Expressing resentment over the sorry state of elections in the country, when even a person like Mahatma Gandhi too should have to shell out money for getting votes, he opined that, however, we should not get disheartened and try to ensure that the system does not deteriorate.

Referring to the election of Droupadi  Murmu, a tribal woman as the President of India, Siddharamaiah said that the BJP wanted someone who was a rubber stamp to occupy the President post. Charging that CM Basavaraj Bommai is under the control of RSS, he said that Bommai works as per the directions of his mentor, the RSS.

Wondering how societal transformation can be brought about when votes are sold for notes, Siddharamaiah questioned the people’s mandate for defectors who fell for ‘Operation Kamala’.

Charging the BJP Government of reducing funds under SCP-TSP grants, the former CM wondered why Dalit Legislators, MPs and other elected representatives in the BJP have remained silent, without bothering to question the Government.

Former Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sabeeha Bhumigowda said that the book is a significant one as it is a review and analysis of the Siddharamaiah Government, which ruled State for five years.

Suttur Mutt Seer Sri Shivaratri Deshikendra Swamiji said that it is a great achievement that a person who had his early education by writing on sand, went to reach great heights by becoming the Chief Minister. Siddharamaiah has filled the void created after the death of Devaraj Urs, Swamiji added.

Mysuru Kaginele Mutt Seer Shivanandapuri Swamiji said that Siddharamaiah should not retire from politics and instead should dedicate his life for the service of the society till                                                  his last breath.

Adichunchanagiri Mutt Seer Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji said that Siddharamaiah was a voice of the oppressed sections of the society and this had catapulted him to the top post. Siddharamaiah must be credited for giving a stable Government and implementation of a host of welfare schemes and programmes.

Former Legislative Council Chairman B.L. Shankar observed that there was a lack of leadership everywhere. Siddharamaiah, who is playing his last innings in politics, should ensure growth of leadership in the State.

Siddharamaiah was felicitated on the occasion.