Sriramulu's supporters stage protest after he misses DCM post

Koppal: A day after Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa allocated portfolios to 17 newly appointed ministers who were inducted into the Cabinet nearly a week ago, supporters of minister Sriramulu staged a protest after he missed the Deputy Chief Minister’s post.

The protesters at Kanakagiri of Koppal District expressed their ire by burning tyres and photos of BJP leader BL Satosh and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The three deputy chief ministers (DCMs) appointe by Yediyurappa are Govind Karjol, who has also been given the charge of PWD and Social welfare; Ashwath Narayan the portfolio of Higher Education, IT & BT, Science and Technology; and Laxman Savadi with Transport department.

Meanwhile, Chikkamagaluru MLA CT Ravi made it clear that he is not disgruntled and he will remain as a disciplined soldier of the party till last breath.

Speaking on the issue Ravi said, “Everyone is aware that loyalty to my Party is my biggest strength as well as my biggest weakness. To those who are suspecting me, I have never indulged in opportunistic politics nor have I ever warmed up to People in Power to indulge in gainful Politics. Neither have I ever prostrated before anyone for the sake of power nor do I believe that power is the only way to earn the respect of people.”

More than three weeks after he was sworn in as the Chief Minister, Yediyurappa had expanded his cabinet on August 20 by inducting 17 Ministers.

Though the expansion brought an end the nearly month long wait for the cabinet to take shape, it led to some heartburn in a section of the party as several MLAs continued to make no secret of their displeasure after missing the bus.