Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy met Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Thursday and reportedly told him that senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah’s recent remarks had done some damage to the coalition government’s image, which otherwise had done reasonably good work in 100 days.
In a brief meeting with Mr. Gandhi at his residence, the Chief Minister urged him to take steps to remove some “irritants” to ensure smooth running of the coalition. He also urged Mr. Gandhi to take an early decision on Cabinet expansion of the coalition government to ensure its stability.
For ensuring a trouble-free administration, and stability and longevity, Mr. Kumaraswamy reportedly told Mr. Gandhi to pass the message to Mr. Siddaramaiah to refrain from making controversial remarks. Mr. Siddaramaiah’s remarks that he wishes to be the Chief Minister again has set off speculation in political circles, despite his later clarification that he was misquoted. Mr. Siddaramaiah had said that he would become the Chief Minister if people desire in the next election.
Mr. Kumaraswamy’s discussions with Mr. Gandhi comes on the eve of the JD(S)-Congress Coordination Committee meeting scheduled on Friday to iron out differences in the alliance that have arisen after Mr. Siddaramaiah’s remarks.
Asked about the remarks, the Chief Minister said: “He (Siddaramaiah) is a leader. If he expresses his desire to become the Chief Minister, what’s wrong in that? The coalition government is secure under the leadership of Mr. Siddaramaiah. He is necessary for the coalition government to run safely.”
Mr. Kumaraswamy apprised Mr. Gandhi about the 100-day performance of the government. “I have requested Mr. Gandhi to take early an decision on the expansion of the Cabinet and appointment of corporation boards’ chairmen,” he said. Seven Cabinet berths are vacant (Congress-6 and JD(S)-1).
On completion of 100 days, the Chief Minister said: “People in the State have various expectations. My first goal is to fulfil their expectations.” He stressed that the government has already announced farm loan waiver and given certain directions to officials to implement the budget proposals.
