CM hints at compromise, but rules out leadership change

Karnataka CM BS Yeddyurappa has hinted at a compromise formula under which he may have to axe some ministers and transfer some officials to end the crisis in the BJP government in the state. Meanwhile some BJP MLAs supporting the dissident camp resigned today deepening the crisis.

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa on Friday hinted at a compromise formula under which he may have to axe some ministers and transfer some officials to end the crisis in the BJP government in the state.

HT Image

"Any important issue...Whatever our all India leaders direct me, I am bound to do it. I have already agreed," he told reporters during his morning walk.

He was asked whether he is ready to sacrifice ministers and transfer bureaucrats as demanded by the Reddy brothers - Tourism Minister Janardhana Reddy and Revenue Minister Karunakara Reddy - who are heading the dissidents in the state.

Yeddyurappa also ruled out leadership change.

Under a reported compromise formula in the making, Rural Development Minister Shobha Karandlaje, considered close to the Chief Minister, may be axed and Assembly Speaker Jagdish Shettar inducted into the cabinet while Chief Minister's Principal Secretary VS Baligar maybe shifted from the Chief Minister's office.

Yeddyurappa expressed confidence that the crisis maybe over by the evening after meeting of the central leadership with state leaders following which a press conference maybe held.

To a question whether he would work with the Reddy brothers, he said "after a settlement is reached one should forget the past and work together".