Dr G Parameshwar to prepare CMP to keep new alliance intact

He, however, told the media on Monday, that it was too early to elaborate on such a move. “We may form a coordination committee or work on the CMP to ensure a healthy relationship with JD (S). We will think about it after mayoral polls to be held on September 11. Our concern is only development of Bengaluru. The image of this city took a beating, and was called a 'garbage city' during the five year rule of BJP. Since the state government is also headed by the Congress it will be easy for us to focus on overall development of Bengaluru,” he added.

Dr Parameshwar claimed that JD(S) had offered unconditional support to Congress but the arrangement would be restricted only to forthcoming mayoral polls. JD (S) president H D Deve Gowda had only suggested that Bengaluru should not be divided into two or three new entities and was not his rider as reported by the media. Even Mr Gowda's demand for an inquiry into loans borrowed by BJP during its tenure in BBMP was only a suggestion, he added.

He said the question of meeting state JD (S) president H D Kumaraswamy again would not arise as he had spoken to him over the phone on Sunday. “All issues have been discussed during my telephonic talk with him,” he added. Asked whether he was happy with the party’s decision to forge an alliance with JD (S), Dr Parameshwar said it was unanimous decision taken by the party and his individual stand does not count. “It is a mutual agreement based on broader ideas. The alliance is only restricted to mayoral elections. Ultimately, it is part of the game", he quipped.

On cabinet reshuffle, Dr Parameshwar said it would be carried out as BBMP elections were over. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would take a call about this at an appropriate time. However, Mr Siddaramaiah and he would decide whether to go ahead with a cabinet expansion or cabinet reshuffle.