After question on propriety, Yeddy returns swanky SUV

Former Chief Minister and Karnataka unit BJP President B S Yeddyurappa has returned a Rs 1.15 crore swanky SUV given to him by a former minister and loyalist to tour the state, after questions were raised about its propriety.

Yeddyurappa said he will tour the state by train.

“Handling the proposed state tour in the same manner is not an issue at all for me. Hence, I have sent back the car provided by Sri Murugesh Nirani yesterday to his residence,” he said. 

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado provided by Nirani, a sugar baron, stirred a hornet’s nest after reports that the seven-seater luxury vehicle would be used by Yeddyurappa to travel around the drought-hit parts, evoking sharp criticism.

The former Chief Minister said Nirani had given the SUV for temporary usage to travel to the drought-affected areas and handle party-related travel.

Earlier, Yeddyurappa had sought to put a lid on the controversy, saying Nirani had given the SUV to him for party work and “after that, he will take back the car.”

Nirani had also defended his gesture, saying the SUV was not a gift and Yeddyurappa could use it as long as he wants.

The vehicle was being given considering that Yeddyurappa has to travel extensively as state BJP chief and his age is 73 years. Nirani had said the SUV was in the name of his company and he had purchased it through loan.