Closure of ports in Karnataka 'eye wash', charges Congress

The Congress today lashed out at the BJP government in Karnataka for ordering closure of ten "minor" ports to prevent iron ore exports and insisted that the state ban export itself.

"It is all an eye wash and drama. If the chief minister BS Yeddyurappa is concerned over protecting the state's resources let him ban export of iron ore", Congress leader Siddaramaiah said before setting out on the third day of the party's 'Bellary Chalo' padayatra against BJP government's alleged "misrule" and "failure" to check illegal mining.

Siddaramaiah's reaction came in the wake of Yeddyurappa announcing in Delhi yesterday that his government had ordered immediate closure of ten ports excepting Mangalore Port, which is under the Centre's control, to check iron ore shipments for exports.

"The closure of ports is not an answer to Congress demand for a CBI probe into illegal mining",Siddaramaiah told reporters.

Iron ore was also being sent from fisheries ports,which has badly affected fishermen,he said.

"The Padayatra launched on July 25 has been a overwhelming success as it has turned into a people's movement now," he said.