Finally, CM to launch his website, log onto social media

In a belated realisation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has decided to connect with citizens on the social media to discuss a wide range of issues. 

“We have seen many people becoming more popular by connecting on the social media. Perhaps, it is apt for me to change with the times. I have not been much active on the social media. But now I will start interacting with the citizens on Facebook and Twitter,” said Siddaramaiah, in a possible reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi whose popularity soared after he joined the social media. 

Siddaramaiah is said to launch his personal website and open a Facebook page in the coming days. According to officials in the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the website and the Facebook page may be opened on Siddaramaiah’s birthday next month. 

The CMO, however, may not wait so long, and the website and social media pages may be launched before that. The chief minister’s website and Facebook pages will be a mix of his personal and official work. He is said to be not comfortable yet with the use of Twitter. 

Earlier, Siddaramaiah said the Department of Information would henceforth be renamed the Department of Public Relations, and not only that of Information. He inaugurated the department’s Twitter handle by sending the first pre-scripted message thus: “Your government is now on social media. Use it to connect with us - Siddaramaiah.” 

The chief minister also launched two vehicles with LED screens, which will travel across the State, promoting folk arts of Karnataka.