Bengaluru: Multi-lingual film actress Sumalatha, contesting as an independent from Mandya Lok Sabha seat against Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy’s son Nikhil, Monday alleged there was a threat to her life and requested the Election Commission to provide her security. She also alleged that her phones were being tapped and that she had spotted some police personnel frequently moving around near her residence.
Sumalatha called on the Chief Electoral Officer Monday and complained about the alleged gross violations of the model code of conduct in Mandya and the threat to her life. The CEO then asked her to give the complaint in writing.
Later, speaking to reporters, Sumalatha,widow of popular Kannada film actor-turned-politician Ambareesh, said Mandya has become a high profile and sensitive Lok Sabha seat as Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy’s son is contesting from there.
The actress said she once confronted the police personnel and questioned them, but they could not give clear cut answers on why they were there.
They were even clicking pictures of visitors to her residence, she said.
“I have requested them (election commission) to provide me security as I feel there is a threat to my life and people are also giving me information. My phones are also being tapped. They are aggressively misusing the official machinery,” Sumalatha alleged.
The actress cited the example of actor Darshan whose house at Rajarajeshwarinagar in the city was stoned a few days ago when he was not at home, as he had extended support to her. Earlier in the day, the actress called on BJP state president B S Yeddyurappa. The party has extended its supportto Sumalatha by not fielding a candidate.
“I came here to express my thanks to Yeddyurappa for supporting me by not fielding a candidate. They voluntarily offered me support without any conditions, for which I am grateful to them,” she said.
Speaking after meeting the actress, Yeddyurappa alleged that the chief minister has created an atmosphere of fear in Mandya. “Sumalatha told me what’s going on in Mandya. The Chief Minister has created an atmosphere of fear in Mandya, but the people there have made up their minds to ensure Sumalatha’s victory,” Yeddyurappa said.
