The first BJP government of Karnataka in south India completed its first year on May 30, 2009. On this occasion, a function was organised at the National College Ground in Bengaluru on May 31, which was attended by more than 30 thousand people from all over the state, in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa with his cabinet, senior BJP leader Ananth Kumar and the party workers. The celebration named as “Vikas Sankalp Utsav” also presented an opportunity where Shri Yeddyurappa listed out his achievements, clarified on controversies and spoke on wide-ranging issues related to the development of the state. On this occasion, a new scheme—Atal Sarige—was also launched, which will offer a 50 per cent reduction in regular bus fare for economically weaker and working classes.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Yeddyurappa said, “I will give it in writing with my blood that I will never betray your trust and confidence.” He further said that the challenge before his government is to speed up the governance and also deliver quality work. Shri Yeddyurappa stated, “The last two elections have somewhat slowed down our developmental speed. The global recession is a worldwide phenomenon. In spite of this, we have taken every step to reduce the economic impact. Recently, the Reserve Bank of India’s Governor, who visited the state, expressed his happiness over our financial management.”
“People expect a lot from me,” he told the Organiser and added that he will focus on a development agenda keeping an eye on ideology his party is based upon. He said with pride that his state ranks seventh in economic development of the country. “We further want to develop the state and therefore are concentrating on developing infrastructure, maintaining law and order and providing basic necessities to the people.” The Chief Minister pointed out, “I feel relaxed when I attend to my work.” Now elections are over so he has decided to sit in Vidhan Soudha at least three days a week and review the departmental works. He feels such a step will compel his ministers to follow in his footsteps. He said that the Vidhan Sabha is like a degula (temple) and there will be sanctity towards work if it is done from there. Asked about why he always looks serious and don’t have a smile on his face even after his party performed so well in the state during the recent Lok Sabha election, Shri Yeddyurappa candidly admits, “When there is so much of poverty, unemployment and other problems, how can I smile? I am not a man who can be satisfied easily.” When asked about “Operation Lotus”, he said: “Instead of 110 MLAs, if we have 120, there will be no need for what our media friends call “Operation Lotus”. By-polls are due for five seats. After that there will be no more polls in the near future.”
Of course, it was a celebration time for the state and there was a massive crowd to observe the first anniversary of the state government, but the CM after attending the formal meeting and cultural show, was busy with his work schedule. Known as a earnest and serious leader with unquestionable integrity, he is admired by all his partymen and people of the state and described as a “popular CM”. Even BJP general secretary and MP Ananth Kumar described him as the “Sachin Tendulkar” of Karnataka BJP team. The CM has asked the opposition to cooperate. “The opposition should guide me and help me realise the dream of the people. I have no ego. I can go to anybody’s doorsteps for the state’s interest. I with all BJP MPs and ministers met the Prime Minister and all the ministers concerned in New Delhi to ensure that all pending projects with the centre be cleared in time,” he informed.
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