New Karnataka Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda, who was sworn in on Thursday, held his first press conference. Vicky Nanjappa reports.
D V Sadananda Gowda, while addressing his first press conference after being sworn in as the chief minister of Karnataka on Thursday, claimed that he was not merely a "rubber stamp".
"Stop calling me a rubber stamp. Wait for another month and you will know who Sadananda Gowda is," he told media personnel.
Speaking on the allocation of portfolios in the state Cabinet, Gowda said that the issue will be sorted out amicably in a few days.
"I will consult my national leaders and take a decision along with the rest of my party colleagues," said the Karnataka CM.
Reacting cautiously to the comment by B S Yeddyurappa -- who has claimed that he will return to the CM's post within six months -- Gowda said that it was merely an opinion expressed by his predecessor.
"If Yeddyurappa feels that he will return as the CM, there is no harm in him thinking in that way," he said.
He also downplayed reports of a rift with party colleague and state Rural Development Minister Jagadish Shettar, who was also a candidate for the CM's post.
"Things are cordial between the two of us. We spoke with each other today morning and there is no problem between us," he said.
Gowda urged journalists not to read too much into the secret ballot that was held on Wednesday to elect the CM.
"It was a democratic process that the BJP followed. This process of selecting a leader will make a mark in the history of India," he claimed.
While answering a question in Malayalam, Gowda stated that he had a close connection with Kerala.
"I was the party in-charge for the state and I am attached to it," he said.
Evading a query on Lokayukta Santosh Hegde's report on illegal mining, Gowda said that he would need some time before he could comment on the issue.
"I need to study the report and only then can I comment on it," he said.
Outlining his plans for the state, Gowda said, "I will ensure that Karnataka will head in a new direction under my leadership. I will take into confidence not only my party colleagues, but also leaders of the opposition".
If the media played a constructive role, said Gowda, it would help in improving the administration in the state.
"Give me all your support and I will take your suggestions," he said.
