Siddu takes a break from padayatra due to back pain

Shyam Sundar Vattam | NT

Bengaluru, Jan. 12 After participating for two days in the Mekedatu padayatra, Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Siddaramaiah has returned to Bengaluru once again following back pain.

According to sources close to him, the former CM after covering four km on January 9 had returned to the state capital following mild fever and fatigue. He consulted doctors who advised him rest. After taking complete rest on Sunday and Monday, Siddaramaiah had hit the streets again on Tuesday and walked around 15 km.

On Wednesday, the senior Congress leader walked for about 7 km till lunch break and then stopped due to back pain. He is reportedly coming back to Bengaluru to consult a doctor.

Although the ‘Huliya’ of Congress wants to take part in the 165-km padayatra from Mekedatu to Bengaluru which is spread over 10 days, his physical condition does not seem to be allowing him to do it. He is 74 years old and walks daily in the morning. Siddaramaiah had successfully completed the padayatra from Bengaluru to Ballari over a decade ago by accepting the challenge of the Reddy brothers to enter Ballari district. This historic padayatra had led to the installation of the Congress government in the state and he assumed charge as chief minister.

Now, the Congress has embarked on a similar exercise but under the captaincy of KPCC President D.K.Shivakumar demanding that the government implement the 50-year old Mekedatu project. Siddaramaiah is taking frequent breaks but has been participating in the padayatra to boost the morale of the Congress Party.