Ansari sticks to his words on continuation of Kumaraswamy

Udupi, May 29 (UNI) Karnataka Labour Minister Iqbal Ansari struck to his guns and asserted today that Chief Minister H D Kumarswamy would continue beyond 20 months.

Speaking to reporters after visiting victims of an accident at a hospital here, he claimed that nearly 40 BJP legislators would be extending support to Mr Kumaraswmay even after his 20-month term ends in October, as per the power sharing agreement between JD(S) and the BJP.

Asked on the demand made by the state Karnataka BJP President Sadananda Gowda yesterday, that he should reveal the names of those BJP MLAs, Mr Ansari said, "How can I reveal the names now. This government has to continue and it needs the support of the BJP. In fact, I want to put an end to this issue. Everyone in the government knows what I am saying, but are afraid to speak about it." He said the JD(S) legislators had pressurised Mr Kumaraswamy to become the Chief Minister and now after proving his mettle during the last 16 months most of legislators in the coalition government wanted him to continue. "About 40 BJP MLAs have also supported our views," he said.

Discounting Mr Ansari's remarks, Chief Minister Kumaraswamy had gone on record claiming that the transfer of power would be smooth and as per plan. "Please wait and watch," he said during the electioneering at Ullal in Dakshina Kannada.

Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader B S Yediyurappa declined to comment on the issue stating that he would not like to react such statements and leave the future to the 'fate'.

UNI