Yashwant to meet Gowda to resolve crisis

Bangalore, Sep 29: Asserting that the Bellary episode had nothing to do with transfer of power IN Karnataka, the BJP today geared up to meet Janata Dal (Secular) supremo H D Deve Gowda to iron out differences.

Briefing newspersons after meeting the state party leaders here, BJP Vice-President Yashwant Sinha, who arrived here last night, said he would discuss the latest political developments with Mr Deve Gowda and pave the way for the smooth transfer of power.

''It is our firm belief, hope and trust that the agreement reached between JD(S) and BJP 20 months ago will fructify,'' he noted, adding, ''we are still hopeful that there will be a smooth transfer of the post of Chief Minister from JD(S) to BJP on October three.'' Mr Sinha said the Bellary incident in which Tourism Minister Sriramulu had alleged Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's involvement in an attempt of murder on him during an election campaign and the agreement on transfer of power were two different issues.

The BJP leader said Mr Deve Gowda rushed to the city without discussing with Party President Rajnath Singh and that he had been directed by the central leadership to have consultation with state party leaders and meet Mr Gowda.

Asked whether the party would initiate any disciplinary action against Mr Sriramulu, Mr Sinha said the minister had been asked to rush to Bangalore and explain the incident and the situation that had made him file a complaint. ''Ours is a national party and no one was authorised to initiate any action unilaterally. We have to follow some rules and procedures in such cases,'' Mr Sinha said.

Responding to a question, he categorically denied any dissention or gameplan within the party against Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa taking up the Chief Minister's post.

The state legislature wing, state leaders and the central leadership were unanimous in this regard, he said.

Asked whether he was confident that the transfer of power would take place as scheduled, he replied, ''We will cross the bridge when it comes.'' Asked how Mr Deve Gowda was relevant in the development as he was not involved in the agreement at the time of formation of the coalition set-up, Mr Sinha said Mr Deve Gowda himself had declared that he was interested to consult the BJP leaders on the transfer of power issue and hence the party leadership chose to interact with him.

Mr Sinha clarified that he was not here with any ''fresh formula'' and whatever was agreed upon had the seal of approval of the people.

The talks between the two leaders would take place soon after the return of Mr Deve Gowda from a tour of Puducherry.

UNI