Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy took a dig at Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, labeling him a “lease-based” Chief Minister. Kumaraswamy made this remark in response to queries from the media about Siddaramaiah allegedly surpassing the records of former Chief Minister D. Devaraj Urs during his term.
“They are claiming that Devaraj Urs’ records have been broken. Previously, Urs had a confrontation with former Prime Minister late Indira Gandhi. He held power continuously. Siddaramaiah is now waiting for the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi to instruct him when to step down,” Kumaraswamy sarcastically added.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Congress leaders assert that he will remain in office until directed by the high command, Kumaraswamy noted. He reiterated, “He has made statements numerous times. In my view, he is a lease-based Chief Minister.”
When questioned if he had any information on the matter, Kumaraswamy stated that he was not aware.
In the midst of queries about differences arising between the BJP and the JD(S) concerning the alliance in local body elections, Kumaraswamy assured that there is no cause for worry. He affirmed that the JD(S) will consistently support the BJP and confront the Congress jointly.
“We will ensure there is no room for misunderstanding. There should be no doubts, and the state should ultimately benefit,” Kumaraswamy emphasized.
Addressing rumors about the potential closure of the government-owned Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) factory, Kumaraswamy clarified that the decision for disinvestment in HMT was made in 2016. He mentioned that manufacturing continues on a smaller scale and clarified that units have not been shut down, whether in Kerala or Hyderabad.
“I will discuss with PM Modi about reopening the HMT factory. I have already made a request. We have planned to rejuvenate HMT using modern technology. There should be no uncertainty about it,” Kumaraswamy affirmed.
