Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Bengaluru, Oct 11 (IANS) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Saturday dismissed media reports speculating about him taking over as chief minister, saying he is in “no hurry” and is completely focused on serving the public.
Speaking to media persons during the “Bengaluru Walk” program at Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the senior Congress leader made his stand clear.
Stressing his commitment towards the welfare of the people, Shivakumar said, “I am in no hurry to take over the post of Chief Minister. I am here to serve the people, not to do politics.”
The Congress leader said that if the media continues to distort news about him like this, he will stop talking to him.
“If you (media) keep distorting the news like this, I will stop cooperating. You will not be invited to any program or press conference,” he said.
Shivakumar also warned that publication of false news or attempts to mislead the public could force him to initiate a defamation case.
He warned, “If any false news is published about me or an attempt is made to mislead the public, I will be forced to file a defamation suit.”
Shivakumar expressed displeasure over the controversy, claiming that some media outlets had blown up the issue of leadership change.
Shivakumar said, “I never claimed that the time has come for me to become the Chief Minister. Yet some media houses are distorting my statement and creating controversy.”
Clarifying the rumors going on regarding the CM issue, he said, ‘During my meeting with the public, some people asked me, ‘You must become the Chief Minister – is that time near?’ However, some media outlets have distorted my statement, making it appear as if I have claimed that the time to become the CM is near. Don’t misunderstand me like this.”
The Deputy CM said that the media should not do politics and he is fully aware of its objectives.
“I have not said this nor is it necessary for me to do so. God will give me a chance when the time is right. My focus is on serving the people of the state and giving good governance in Bengaluru. However, instead of covering the positive work, some media are trying to create controversy,” he lamented.
When asked about road repair works being carried out during rains in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said, “During road works, the wet-mixing method is used. In some emergency situations, this method is used to lay asphalt even during rains.”
“It rained heavily across the city throughout the night. Our officials have operated with caution and are continuing to do so. No accidents have been reported anywhere. There has been some disruption in water flow only in a few areas,” he said.
Responding to a question about potholes that were filled a week ago but reopened due to rain, he said such problems can occur during rains, but the problem will be resolved.
–IANS
MKA/SNJ/SKP