Bangalore, Apr 4 (PTI): Karnataka Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda today removed his media advisor R P Jagadeesha, a known Yeddyurappa loyalist, in what is seen as his first act of asserting himself.

Jagadish, a journalist, had been appointed by Yeddyurappa when he was Chief Minister and he continued in the post even after Gowda assumed office.

Jagadeesha confirmed he has been relieved of his duties.

He has been associated with the activities of Yeddyurappa particularly after the former Chief Minister stepped up efforts for his reinstatement as Chief Minister.

Last month, B J Puttaswamy, a loyalist of Yeddyurappa who was Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, was suspended from the BJP after he tried to contest as rebel in the Rajya Sabha biennial election.
Talking to reporters, Sadananda Gowda said that he asked Jagadeesha to resign.

"Since the last few days, he has not attended (work). Reasons are not known. For that reason (I asked him to resign)", the Chief Minister said.

Asked if he would continue with Chief Minister's office staff, who are holding posts since the time of his predecessor B S Yeddyurappa, Gowda said those who do not do their work would be removed.