BSY inducts rebel leader

In an apparent move to quell dissidence in the ruling BJP in Karnataka, Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa on Thursday expanded his ministry by inducting rebel MLA M.P. Renukacharya into his cabinet.

Renukacharya, prominent among the dissidents who had questioned Yeddyurappa's leadership, was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Karnataka Governor H.R. Bharadwaj at a brief ceremony on Thursday.

With his induction as a cabinet minister, the strength of the ministry has risen to 34.

Renukacharya who is facing criminal charges in a sexual harassment case, said he had been inducted with the blessings of senior leaders and that he would endeavour to work for his constituency in particular and the state in general.

He said he had not been alloted any portfolio, but would diligently carry out the work entrusted to him.

The swearing-in ceremony of the MLA, representing Honalli in Davanagere district, was witnessed among others by Ministers K S Eswarappa and Aravind Limbavali.

The induction of Renukacharya, who supported the oust Yedyurappa campaign conducted by the Reddy brothers - Tourism Minister Janardhana Reddy and Revenue Minister Karunakara Reddy last month, was opposed by some. However, the Chief Minister ignored their protests.