Date:31/01/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/01/31/stories/2005013103590600.htm

Karnataka

Antony rules out snapping of ties with JD(S)

By Our Special Correspondent

BANGALORE, JAN. 30. After consulting the Ministers, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee office-bearers and workers for the past three days, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary in-charge of the State, A.K. Antony, has rejected the demand by a section of the party leaders to break ties with the Janata Dal (Secular) and said the Congress will not become a party to destabilising the first coalition Government in the State.

Mr. Antony, former Kerala Chief Minister, told presspersons here today that the party leaders and workers should reconcile themselves to the compelling situation and ensure continuation of the Government led by N. Dharam Singh. "The Congress should not be an instrument for destabilising the Government," he said.

Mr. Antorny, who concluded his first visit to the State after being appointed to the post on November 23, 2004, admitted that the Government is facing problems as many leaders and defeated ministers have not reconciled themselves to the coalition set-up.

"Whether one likes it or not, it is a reality ," he said.

The indecisive verdict in the last Assembly elections compelled the Congress to join hands with the Janata Dal (S). He ruled out any change in the KPCC leadership and said B. Janardhana Poojary will continue as its President till the gram panchayat polls are completed. Elections to 5,526 gram panchayats will be held in two phases on February 25 and 27.

Compared with many other States, the Congress has a bright future in Karnataka, he said. "The party is healthy. No issue is beyond the control of the party and it is in good shape," Mr. Antony said and urged the leaders not to rush to New Delhi even for minor issues.

There is a need to bring various social groups back to the party.