Daijiworld Media Network - Belagavi (SP)

Belagavi, Jul 20: In a controversial move, food minister, Umesh Katti, said here on Monday July 19 that if the chief minister (CM) is replaced, he will be the leading candidate to succeed Yediyurappa.

Speaking To media persons, he said currently the state has its CM and that the government is functioning well. "If the people of the state bless me, and if the party bigwigs make up their mind, I am an aspirant to become the next CM. But as of now, the seat of the CM is not vacant. Therefore, I would not like to discuss the issue. If the chief minister is changed, our stand is that the post should be given to someone from north Karnataka. Whoever comes, should be a person who rules the entire state in a balanced manner. My number is first in the list of aspirants and if lady luck favours me and the party leadership so decides, I have the desire to become the CM of Karnataka," he stated.