Ramalinga Reddy Refuses Bengaluru Development Role
In a fresh setback for the Congress party ahead of Bengaluru civic elections, senior leader and minister Ramalinga Reddy on Sunday declared he would restrict his work to his BTM Layout constituency and not take up any responsibilities related to Bengaluru development. This comes after intense firefighting by Congress high command and Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to placate the veteran leader.
Speaking to TOI, Reddy said, "I shall limit my work to BTM Layout. I will not go over and beyond it in the city." He further stated that he would soon take charge of the major irrigation department but would not involve himself in the upcoming elections to the five corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA). "It (irrigation) has been offered to me. I shall do better work than any other minister," he added.
Implications for Congress
The minister's hands-off approach could spell a bigger crisis for Congress, as he holds significant influence in city elections. His statement effectively ends any prospects of cooperation for party work in the coming weeks and months. Sources indicate that the decision stems from a perceived slight when Krishna Byre Gowda, a relatively junior minister, was appointed as Bengaluru development minister and had to approach Reddy for funds and assistance for his areas in the city.
Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara dismissed any further developments on the portfolio situation, calling it "a closed chapter." He added, "The CM will decide on allocating the rest of the portfolios when the cabinet reshuffle takes place."
This development highlights internal tensions within the Karnataka Congress as the party gears up for crucial civic body elections. Reddy's refusal to engage beyond his constituency may hamper the party's campaign efforts in Bengaluru.
