Just a day before the political drama began in Karnataka with a string of resignations from the Congress-JD(S) coalition, the seer of Pejawar mutt, Vishwesha Tirtha Swami (in picture) , had a rather peculiar solution to the constant state of political instability. He suggested there should be an “all-party government” in Karnataka as it would put an end to infamous practices such as ‘Operation Lotus’ and party hopping by MLAs. He said the formation could be arrived at when no party gets absolute majority in Assembly or Parliament. As reporters seemed bemused by this rather impractical suggestion, he said people who scoff at his idea will soon appreciate its practicability. He drew a parallel to Winston Churchill’s ‘war ministry’ during the World War II, which had several parties on board. These are not exactly times of war in Karnataka, but given the state of politics here, one need not be surprised if people soon become votaries of the seer’s idea.
Revanna’s top pick
There is a belief in the corridors of power that JD(S) leader H.D. Revanna, whenever in power, is on the lookout for officials, who can match his speed in execution of work, for his native district Hassan. Akram Pasha, DC of Hassan, in an interaction with media persons recently, said senior officers at the secretariat in Bengaluru often refer to the Hassan DC as “celebrity DC” for this special status they enjoy. However, there is another opinion that Mr. Revanna prefers officers promoted to IAS or IPS cadres over those recruited directly to IAS or IPS cadres, for his district. Interestingly, in a meeting with officers, Mr. Revanna was heard telling an official: “You have to work very efficiently. Otherwise, people will look down upon those promoted to the IAS from KAS cadre.” Incidentally, Mr. Pasha too is a KAS promotee.
Putting the record straight
Files going “missing” is often a way taken by officials to cover up a mistake. But, at least on a few occasions, they are caught by elected representatives, who come prepared to review meetings. During a recent such meeting in Hubballi, the municipal officials were caught off guard by former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar. While speaking of clearing encroachments, the officials began referring to the need to look for old records. Mr. Shettar said he was expecting this answer. “You will not find the documents, I assure you. They will be misplaced. But don’t worry. I will give you the copies,” he said, much to their embarrassment. “We have to tell you who has violated rules, we have to give you records. What else must we do? Will you act now or do you have more excuses lined up?” he quipped. The meeting ended with a strict warning to municipal officials from the DC.
Ganesh Prabhu
Sathish G.T.
Girish Pattanashetti
