Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Jul 25: Amid speculations over the possible resignation of chief minister B S Yediyurappa, Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister Kota Srinivas Poojary on Sunday July 25 denied that there were any differences among the party leaders but added that the chief minister was ready to resign if asked to do so by the party high command.

He was speaking to media persons after visiting Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Oscar Fernandes at a hospital here. He also spoke to his family members.

Oscar Fernandes fell critically ill and was hospitalised a few days ago after he suffered head injuries from a fall while doing yoga.

Poojary further said, "Oscar Fernandes was responsible for several development works including the development of national highways and Konkan railways. He is a role model and a faithful representative of the people. It is painful to see him ill. I wish him speedy recovery."

Speaking on the issue of leadership change in the state, he said, "There is no difference of opinion among us. The chief minister has expressed that he treats the party as his mother and will act according to the diktat of the party high command. This is the duty of a party worker who is a role model to the state and the country. The next chief minister will be decided by the party's national and state presidents."

To a question on his name doing the rounds as a possible successor to Yediyurappa, Poojary said, "In a democracy, we should respect everyone's opinion. As an ordinary party worker, I will listen to the senior party leaders."