No differences between JD-S-BJP: K'taka CM

Bangalore, July 3: Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today told the Assembly that there was no difference of opinion between the ruling coalition partners, Janata Dal (S) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with regard to appointment of Lok Ayukta.

Replying to a matter raised by Leader of the Opposition N Dharam Singh and others after question hour, he said the BJP was entitled to have its view. However, it was for the cabinet to decide on such appointments in consultation with the opposition leaders, within the framework of law, he added.

Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa also clarified that there was no crisis or lack of coordination between the two parties over the matter. It was true that he had said that Mr Venkatachala, who had relinquished the post yesterday, should be given another term, but it was purely a view expressed on behalf of the party, he clarified.

Earlier, raising the issue, Mr Singh alleged that there was no coordination between the coalition partners and pointed out that while Mr Kumaraswamy had ruled out giving another term for Mr Venkatachala, Mr Yediyurappa had observed that there was nothing wrong in giving him another term taking into account his good deeds, he pointed out.

UNI