BENGALURU, 6 JULY

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday paid floral tributes to Babu Jagjivan Ram near the west gate of Vidhana Soudha, as part of a memorial service organised in honour of the late leader's death anniversary.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister described Jagjivan Ram as a rare and capable leader who made significant contributions during a critical period in India's history.

"A rare leader and a good administrator (he was). There was a food shortage in our country. Babu Jagjivan Ram did a good job as a minister. He was an inspiration to all of us, as a leader of Dalits, backward classes and minorities," Siddaramaiah said.

Touching upon internal political developments, Siddaramaiah said he would speak to the high command regarding recent decisions and meetings.

"I had said to hold a meeting in Karnataka. I don't know why I was made the chairman. They have announced. If I give you responsibility, will you run away? There is no question of leaving the guarantee scheme. We are allocating some funds for road development to MLAs, including BJP and JDS members," he said.