Unanimous UPA decision required to replace Koda: Allies

Ranchi, Aug 6 (UNI) The Congress statement that it would not come in the way of JMM president Sibu Soren becoming Chief Minister was a shot in the arm for the former Coal Minister but many ministers in the Jharkhand government were still reluctant to see change of leadership soon.

Though many of them talking to UNI did not divulge their reactions to the issue openly, but at the same time they did not mince word to convey that while Chief Minister Madhu Koda was ''fairly'' trying to deliver the goods, he should not be disturbed.

Water Resource, Food and Public Distribution Minister Kamlesh Kumar said Mr Soren was the ''sarbamanya neta'' but Mr Koda was also ''doing his bit in the office competently.'' Mr Singh said if the UPA central leadership took a decision in that direction by replacing Mr Koda then he would abide by it.

However, he pointed out that Mr Koda was chosen during critical period and he was blessed by ''giruji'' enormously indicating that the JMM resident should continue to support the Chief Minister to complete the term and ensure stability.

HRD Minister Bandhu Tirkey (UGDP), was more straight forward in his support for Mr Soren saying if the UPA leadership in New Delhi took any decision it must get reflected in the state unit as well.

''They made Mr Koda as CM and we accepted and if they go for a change we will obey that too,'' Mr Tirkey said.

He, in a lighter vein, said ''who knows they may make me the next Chief Minister''.

Deputy Chief Minister Sudhir Mahto (JMM) said he was yet to talk to ''guruji'' and hence could not comment on the topic at the moment.

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