Party’s decision on portfolio cannot be changed: Karnataka CM

Stating that the decision on allocating the Bengaluru Development portfolio to Krishna Byre Gowda had been taken by the party central leadership, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday also acknowledged that he had indeed promised Ramalinga Reddy that the portfolio would be given to him.

‘Cannot be changed’

The Chief Minister also said that whatever decision had been made, cannot be changed by setting aside decisions of party seniors.

Reacting to the resignation of Mr. Reddy, after being denied the Bengaluru Development portfolio, he told reporters, “It is true that I had earlier told Mr. Reddy that I would give him the portfolio. He is a senior Minister. When Mr. Reddy was allocated the Transport portfolio earlier, my brother (D.K. Suresh) and I had persuaded him to accept it. At that time, the Muzrai portfolio, which was with Sudhakar, was given to him.”

Mr. Shivakumar further said, “I have made my efforts. The party seniors have now taken a decision to give the portfolio to Mr. Gowda. I will speak to him about this.”

Muniyappa will accept portfolio

On the displeasure expressed by K.H. Muniyappa on being allocated Food and Civil Supplies instead of Social Welfare that he had sought, the Chief Minister said, “After discussion with (Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha) Rahul Gandhi, the party has persuaded him. Mr. Gandhi spoke to Mr. Muniyappa after which he has happily informed that he would accept whatever the party gives him.”