Balakrishna said voters want him as minister, supports D.K. Shivakumar as CM, and Delhi leaders assured his request is under consideration
MAGADI
Magadi MLA H.C. Balakrishna said that the decision to appoint him as a minister rests entirely with the party high command, while expressing confidence that a suitable decision will be taken soon. He spoke to reporters after inspecting various development works in Dodda Somanahalli village of the taluk.
Balakrishna said the people of the constituency had elected him as their representative and had also expressed their wish to see him become a minister. He recalled that he had always wanted D.K. Shivakumar to become the Chief Minister and believed the aspirations of party workers and voters should also be respected. He added that he recently visited Delhi and discussed the matter with national party leaders, who assured him that his request was being considered.
Speaking about missing out on a ministerial position despite winning five consecutive Assembly elections, Balakrishna admitted he felt disappointed. At the same time, he said he was proud of the trust shown by the people. He described five successive victories as a rare achievement in today’s political climate and said it reflected the strong support he had received from voters over the years.
The MLA said whether he becomes a minister or not depends on destiny, but he would continue working sincerely for the welfare of the constituency. He promised to repay the faith placed in him by ensuring development and addressing the needs of the people.
Responding to questions about the proposed protest march over the Bidadi Town Shift issue, Balakrishna said local leaders had decided not to organise the march for now. He explained that the advantages and disadvantages of the project would be studied carefully before taking any further decision.
He also said compensation was being distributed to farmers whose lands had already been notified for acquisition. Payments to farmers in the remaining villages would begin after the final notification process is completed. According to him, nearly 70 to 80 percent of the affected people are supporting the government’s efforts. He declined to respond to opposition criticism, saying an appropriate reply would be given at the right time.
