Unhappy with Congress, HD Kumaraswamy not averse to calling off alliance

Bengaluru: “I am not at all satisfied with the performance in the 100 days the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) has ruled BBMP as the misery of citizens still persists,” said State JD(S) president H.D. Kumaraswamy.

The former Chief Minister, who was initially opposed to extending support to the Congress to drum up a coalition after the major parties failed to secure a majority in BBMP polls, told DC that he was waiting for the honeymoon to get over before taking any drastic step. “I will be at fault if we act in haste before the alliance completes a minimum period of six months. I will wait for another three months and then announce my decision,” he said.

He wondered if there was any change in the city’s condition after the Congress-JD(S) came to power in BBMP. The garbage crisis continues to be serious and good roads are hardly seen. Congress leaders had promised to change city infrastructure at the time of seeking JD(S) support but nothing has happened since then.

People have started blaming Janata Dal (Secular) for supporting the Congress which has no respect for the people’s mandate. “Why should we should get the blame for no fault of ours? I will give two to three months to the Congress to pull up its socks failing which I may have to take a tough stand.”

He said the change of portfolio of Mr K.J. George (from home to city development) has not helped Bengaluru in any manner. Mr George has been carrying out inspections day and night on behalf of CM Siddaramaiah without any results. “Even 100 Georges cannot improve the city if the government does not have the will to do it.”

Discrimination

He alleged that there was discrimination in the release of funds for 197 BBMP wards. The lion’s share goes to wards represented by Congress. “With this discrimination, how it is possible to ensure overall development of the city?” he said.

He said an immediate change of mayor or deputy mayor is possible only if 75 per cent of the total member sign a notice for their removal which is a distant possibility.

The Janata Dal (Secular) has to wait till the next mayoral polls to show its might.