Not bothered how long I survive as CM, says Kumaraswamy
What's the story
HD Kumaraswamy yesterday asserted that the opportunity to occupy the post of Karnataka CM was "godsend" for him and he wasn't bothered how long he would occupy the chair.
Kumaraswamy, who is heading the Congress-JD(S) coalition government and facing frequent pinpricks from some sections of the coalition partner, said both parties had come together to save the state and not for any vested interests.
Quote
Modi trend seen in 2014 elections doesn't exist anymore: Kumaraswamy
Kumaraswamy said the Modi "trend" witnessed in 2014 general election no more existed, as reflected in the results of several by-polls across India. "Karnataka has provided a new platform for the 2019 elections and a new political change will take place from here," he said.
Elections
Kumaraswamy says Karnataka by-polls would impact elections in other states
Kumaraswamy claimed the results of the November 3 by-polls in three Lok Sabha and two Assembly constituencies in Karnataka would impact the poll outcome in the five states (Mizoram, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana) where Assembly polls are to be held.
The Chief Minister made the statements at a Meet The Press programme organized by Press Club of Bangalore and Bangalore Reporters Guild.
For the people
Karnataka govt formed to save state and its people: Kumaraswamy
The JD(S) and the Congress had entered into a post-poll alliance after the May K'taka Assembly polls, in which BJP emerged as the single largest party but failed to form a government.
"We didn't form the government to advance our vested interests. It's a government to save the state and its people. It is not a government to protect Siddaramaiah or Kumaraswamy," Kumaraswamy said.
Allegations
Kumaraswamy takes a dig at BJP
Kumaraswamy was peeved at BJP's allegations that Siddaramaiah and former Prime Minister, HD Deve Gowda, were opportunists.
In response, he said, "What will you say about BJP's interest or arrangement? It was (state BJP president) Yeddyurappa who said in 2013 (after breaking away from BJP) that my dead body will also not go to the BJP. Look at the language the BJP leaders used."
Developments
Kumaraswamy talks about developments in Karnataka by his govt
On the Congress-JD(S) coalition arrangement, Kumaraswamy said developments in Karnataka had always impacted national politics.
Kumaraswamy recalled the crop loan waiver, emphasis on improving education and allocation of more funds under the Anna Bhagya scheme providing 7 kg rice to each member of families belonging to the Below Poverty Line as some of the progressive steps the government has taken.
Infrastructure
Kumaraswamy says 440 bridges to be constructed in rural areas
Speaking about infrastructure projects, Kumaraswamy said the peripheral ring road and outer ring road in Bengaluru that was pending for a long time have been given life once again.
The Chief Minister also said that 440 bridges in the rural areas would be constructed where people were forced to build temporary wooden bridges that could jeopardize their lives.
Action
Karnataka govt to act tough against corruption in the state
To improve administration, Kumaraswamy said his government has streamlined the transfer process and has given a free hand to the police to take stringent action against anti-social elements.
Kumaraswamy said his government would act tough against "corrupt elements" and cited the case of two officers who were raided recently while 18 kg of gold was seized from their possession.