Hassan (K'taka)
BJP national general secretary Arun Singh's statement ruling out his replacement has given him "more strength", Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said on Friday and asserted that he will work for the development of the state during the remaining two years of the term. The 78-year-old Lingayat strongman also said his responsibility has increased because of trust shown in him by the BJP high command.
"Arun Singh who is Karnataka in-charge has said that there is no question (of leadership change).. it doesn't arise and that Yediyurappa will remain (CM) for the next two years and complete the term-- where does that question arise," Yediyurappa said in response to a question.
Speaking after a review meet with officials and public representatives from the district, he said, "it’s been clarified that Yediyurappa will continue for remaining two years and with cooperation of everyone I will focus on development and tour across the state, and will make honest efforts to do a good job."
Amid speculation about leadership change in Karnataka, Singh, who is BJP's national general secretary in-charge of the state, on Thursday had ruled out replacing the Chief Minister and asserted that Yediyurappa will continue in the top post.
Yediyurappa in response to a question said that Singh's statement has given him "more strength".
"Hundred per cent, when our Karnataka in-charge has said there is no change for the remaining two years and good work is happening under my leadership, my responsibility has increased. I will put more effort and honestly work for the next two years, and try to live up to the trust shown in me by PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah (Home Minister)," he added.
Speculation has been rife for some time now that efforts were on, by a section of the ruling BJP to exert pressure for unseating Yediyurappa.