Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Jan 20: Union minister D V Sadananda Gowda, speaking to media persons here on Sunday January 19, at the Krishna Math, said that Udupi has carved out an important place for itself in India because of the presence of the eight Maths which are serving Lord Krishna.

"The Maths convey a good message to the entire world of finding solace in the devotion of the Lord. I have got an opportunity to be part of the unveiling ceremony of the golden roof at the sanctum sanctorum of Sri Krishna Math and feel blessed to be part of this event," he stated.

In reply to queries on the question on state Cabinet expansion, he informed that a meeting to discuss this issue had been conducted recently with the participation of senior party leaders as far as his knowledge goes. He also said that as per his information, the concerned have got a green signal to this proposal. "The chief minister (CM) is busy with his foreign tour programme. After he returns, cabinet expansion is likely to happen. I hope everything will go on smoothly. I have confidence that Karnataka CM will fulfill all promises he had made," he stated.

"There is lack of awareness about CAA and NRC. That's why people are opposing it. Creating awareness about these issues is our responsibility. People's representatives should do that. Indian citizens do not get adversely affected by this act. Cabinet ministers and party leaders are trying hard to educate the people. Now the situation has calmed down to a certain level, and the intensity has also eased as people have slowly been realizing that the act does not affect them. Once the people understand the act they will accept it as there is nothing harmful for anyone," he added.

Gowda, when criticizing the statement made by Kapil Sibal, said that it shows his mean mentality. "I think he is not eligible to continue in his post. Let him first stop divisions that are happening in his own party. Then he can talk about the good of the nation. We got 2/3rd majority votes regarding amendment bill. Now it is in court, I hope everything will be good soon," he explained.

KPCC president Dinesh Gundu Rao, said, "AICC should not drag the issue of appointing state leaders of the party for long time, and it should arrive at a suitable decision at the earliest possible, by taking party leaders into confidence. There is a need to collect public opinion. 

"Everyone has right to express opinion. Sonia Gandhi family has contributed a lot for this nation. Rahul Gandhi's leadership is important for this nation and I hope he will get the post he deserves in coming days," he said.

Answering a question CAA and NRC, he said that Amit Shah has been trying to mislead the people and divide them on the basis of their religious affiliations. "He has given emotional touch to this bill. Let's not do anything that violates the constitution. The act targets one community and it is not right. He is telling lies. Students are opposing and staging protest voluntarily against the Act brought about by the BJP-led government that has been imposed on Indians. This is not right. If they really want to create conflict and divide nation, let them do it. Before that, just collect public opinion and review it. There is a need to create awareness about these issues," he felt.

Govind Karajol, deputy chief minister, answering questions on creating additional DCM posts, said, "This discussion is happening outside of the party. All are bound by the decision that may be taken by the party." He said that the party high command takes decision on these issues and also whether the 17 MLAs who crossed over should be made ministers. He said that a decision on these matters is expected soon.

Regarding expansion of Cabinet, Karjol said, “Right now the CM is out of the country. Once he returns, we will discuss it.”