'Cooperation instead of confrontation' new mantra for BJP govt

New Delhi, Jun 2 (UNI) Stating that he would prefer to take a path of cooperation instead of confrontation, taking all parties along the path of development, new Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa today said the government would take up on top priority the complaints of corruption during the previous regime.

Addressing his first news conference after assuming office here, the Chief Minister said the state had adopted the development model of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government which would take the state towards the path of progress.

''I am very much impressed by the Vision 2020 document of former President A P J Abdul Kalam. We would like to make it a part of our developmental strategy,'' he said, adding he would be meeting the former President this evening.

Asked for his government's views on the allegations of corruption during the previous regime, he said there could be no compromise.

Answering a question regarding senior BJP MLA and former minister Jagadish Shettar's refusal to accept the Speaker's post, Mr Yeddyurappa said, ''You have to wait for a few days. Everything will be resolved smoothly.'' His answer was the same when another reporter asked about the troubles regarding the distribution of portfolios to the ministers inducted into the Cabinet.

Asked for his comments on inducting five Independent MLAs into the Cabinet, the CM said the reality was that the government did not have absolute majority on its own and has to depend on their support. ''I don't consider the post as that of a king but an opportunity to serve them as their humble servant.'' He said he believed in the principle of consensus and collective decision-making taking everyone along. He would also make sincere efforts to enlist the support of all political parties and leaders in the process of building a vibrant, prosperous and strong Karnataka.

There was no scope for compromise in protecting the water resources, land, language and culture of Karnataka. ''It is of utmost importance and there is no scope for a compromise'', he said.

He said he would convene an all party leaders meeting regarding tackling contentious inter-state river water disputes like Cauvery and Hogenakal project. The state would make all efforts to safeguard the interests of Karnataka and its cause. However, this exercise would be done after the government secured vote of confidence in the state Assembly, he added.

All efforts would be made to implement the recommendations of Dr D M Najundappa Committee to end regional imbalance within the state.

Touching upon infrastructural problems, he said Bangalore's development would be given special thrust and it would be groomed and developed as a global city with facilities of world standard.

UNI MCN SB RK1320