Hubballi: Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa was the picture of confidence on Tuesday as he declared that not only would his government survive the December 5 bypolls, but he would also present a pro-farmer Budget in February, announcing new schemes for their welfare.
Rubbishing reports of the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) reviving their alliance to form the government post the bypolls, he claimed they had in reality accepted defeat.
The Chief Minister, who was speaking to reporters here, was also dismissive of claims by Congress and JD(S) leaders that he would be forced to step down as Chief Minister after December 9, claiming on the contrary that there would be pressure on Congress Legislature Party leader, Siddaramaiah to step down following the byelection results.
“Congress and JD(S) leaders claimed that together they had a majority in the Legislative Assembly. But BJP nominee, K.C. Ramamurthy was elected unopposed as member of the Rajya Sabha and both parties failed to put up a consensus candidate for the election. There is no sign of unity among them at the ground level despite the statements they have been making,” Mr Yediyurappa said.
While refusing to comment on the contrary views of Janata Dal (Secular) supremo H.D. Deve Gowda and his son and former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy on the longevity of his government, he said he had first hand evidence that it would complete its full term. “I have conducted two rounds of campaigning in all 15 Assembly constituencies. There is a BJP wave and the party is receiving overwhelming response from the people these byelections. The people want me to head a stable government and I am committed to providing it,” he added.
