Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB/MS)
Udupi, May 7: Umesh Katti, minister for forest, food and civil supplies said that if people of Karnataka bless him, he will be the next chief minister (CM) of Karnataka.
Katti spoke to reporters in the city on various issues.
When asked about demand for separate state of North Karnataka, Katti said, “I am the one who started separate state demand as injustice was meted out to that part of the state. In future too, that demand will be there. Now development work is in progress. Cows and Oxen pertain to Mysuru area. Buffaloes and bulls are related to our area. When cows and Oxen died, people used to get compensation, but no compensation was given when buffaloes or bulls died. During that time, I urged Siddaramaiah to provide compensation. Now there is no need of separate state. Let all of us live together.”
To the query of whether he will be the next CM of Karnataka, Katti replied, “I am the most senior MLA in the state. Out of 10 elections, I have won nine. I am still young at the age of 61. I have time till 75. I am not in a hurry to become the CM. It is not hard and fast that I should become the CM. I have 15 years of time still left. God’s mercy is on me. If people of Karnataka bless me, I will become the CM. I have the capacity to manage if given the position.
“The government will give good governance for the next one year. We will fight next elections with 150-seat target in mind. Many changes are seen in Mysuru area. No question of Operation Kamala. Those who believe in our party ideology are welcome. Those who do not join will remain where they are,” he said.
With regards to PSI recruitment scam and various other scams, Katti said, “The investigation is on into every scam. When I get proper information, I will convey.”
On the query of MLA Yatnal’s accusation of Rs 2,500 crore demand for the CM’s post, Katti said, “He must have said this knowingly or unknowingly. D K Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah do not have any other work as they are in opposition. Let them be there as politicians. People will give answers in the coming days.
“Priyanka Kharge is an expert in political behaviour. His father also knows what to speak in politics. But when one is called for inquiry within legal framework, he or she should present himself or herself. A people’s representative has duties to perform. We have to be committed to our statement before court sends notice. Investigation should take place,” he said.