From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Jan 24: Chief minister Basavaraj Bommai has clarified that the appointments of chairpersons for the State-level boards and corporations will be decided by the ruling BJP in Karnataka.

Speaking to media representatives in Bengaluru on Monday, January 24, the chief minister made it clear that he was not aware of the reported statement by State BJP President Nalin Kumar Kateel that the appointments will be made by next week.

"It depends on the party. There is no proposal before me on the issue as of now on appointments to Boards and Corporations," he said pointing out that the party leadership must examine the issue and submit a report after obtaining the BJP high command’s clearance.

Cabinet expansion after green signal from high command

To a question on the expansion of his ministry, the Chief Minister said there were four vacant berths in the cabinet. "Naturally, there are aspirants. There is nothing wrong with that. It is for the party high command to take a decision. Right now, the Central leadership is preoccupied with the ensuing budget session and the elections to five State assemblies, including the all-important Uttar Pradesh."

"It all depends upon when the Central leadership takes a decision and asks me to visit Delhi for discussions. I cannot speak on this issue," he said.

Six months on Jan 28

The Chief Minister mentioned that his government will be completing six months in office on January 28 and the government is compiling a booklet on the major decisions taken and the performance of various departments.

Asked if he was satisfied with the government’s performance, Bommai said, "I will answer all your questions on that day (January 28) when the booklet on the government’s achievements is being released."

The chief minister said his government was currently busy with preparations for the State budget for the year 2022-23.

He said internal meetings have been held with Finance and all revenue generating departments. Instructions have been issued on achieving the targets. Another meeting with the Finance department would be held on January 25 in the backdrop of Covid havoc since the end of December.

"The budget would be prepared after discussions with various departments and organisations," Bommai said.

Replying to a question about a secret meeting reportedly held at the house of Food and Civil Supplies Minister Umesh Katti in Belagavi, he said, "I don't know about it. Different leaders keep meeting on various occasions. Even Congress and BJP leaders keep meeting. Interpretations of the media about these meetings are not correct."