HDK to continue in power after Oct 3

Bijapur, Sept 17: Striking a discordant note on transfer of power to coalition partner Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka, Chief Minister H D Kumarswamy today claimed that he was prepared to continue to be in power if Janata Dal (Secular) MLAs supported him. Talking to newsmen here he said his last 20 months could be considered as a probationary period and would like to continue rule the state for another 20 months, if his MLAS confirmed him.

Mr Kumaraswamy who had been stating that the transition of power to the BJP would be a smooth affair before October three, however has for the first time expressed a divergent view.

He had echoed the sentiments of some of the Ministers who had been asserting that Mr Kumaraswamy would continue even after the deadline..

After parting with the Congress 20 months ago the JD (S) struck a deal with the BJP on sharing of power equally for 20 months each.

UNI