Bengaluru: Former Chief Minister and JD(S) State President H.D. Kumaraswamy (HDK) has threatened to commit suicide in public if the Lokayukta Special Investigation Team (SIT) proves his role in Janthakal mining case.

Appointed by the Supreme Court, the Lokayukta SIT is investigating into the illegal Janthakal mining case. Kumaraswamy is facing allegations of receiving kickbacks of Rs. 150 crore for allegedly issuing permits to Janthakal Enterprises to lift iron ore from  Chitradurga.

Seemingly infuriated at a press conference held in Bengaluru yesterday, Kumaraswamy attacked SIT claiming that they were allegedly intimidating him by claiming that they have proof of his role.

“Who’s that Officer who claims to have proof against me? Such statements are intended at maligning my reputation ahead of Assembly elections. If the SIT officials prove my role in the Janthakal mining case, I will end my life in front of the public,” Kumaraswamy said.

It may be recalled here that former Minister and mining baron G. Janardhan Reddy had alleged that he had a “CD” to prove that Kumaraswamy and his family received kickbacks by Janthakal Enterprises way back in 2006.

Reddy was summoned by the SIT last week where he claimed to have submitted the  “proof in CD and pen drive” to defend his allegations.

Meanwhile, the High Court has directed that the SIT cannot arrest Kumaraswamy till June 28.

The Court order follows a plea by the JD(S) leader seeking anticipatory bail after it was rejected by the Lokayukta Special Court, early this month.