G T Deve Gowda finally assumes office after two weeks

Nearly a fortnight after the allocation of portfolios, senior JD(S) leader G T Deve Gowda on Friday assumed office as the Minister for Higher Education.

Gowda, who is just an 8th class pass, had refused to accept the Higher Education portfolio, saying that he had no clue how the department functions. He wanted a portfolio that gives him an opportunity to work for the welfare of common man, especially farmers.

Gowda, who had emerged a giant killer in the recently held assembly elections by defeating Congress’ Siddaramaiah in Chamundeshwari constituency, had sought either the Revenue or the Water Resources portfolio. It was also speculated that Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy might give him the Excise portfolio.

Speaking to reporters after assuming office at Vidhana Soudha, Gowda, however, said he will not seek a change of portfolio and will perform his duties to the best of his abilities. He performed pooja at his office on the third floor of Vidhana Soudha along with him wife before assuming office.