The promises Kumaraswamy made

In the run-up to the polls, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy visited Deccan Herald-Prajavani office for an interaction under the ‘Prajamatha -2018' series where he articulated ideas for a better governance model in Karnataka.

Kumaraswamy had stressed upon involving citizens and experts in the decision-making process, and not just bureaucrats.

DH lists out some of the key takeaways from the interaction:

• Professionals should hold portfolios:
  Kumaraswamy began by opposing the allotment of portfolios to elected representatives, saying, “An elected representative will be an expert in election and politics, but he will have zero knowledge about handling a department. He will just take a decision on the suggestions given by an IAS officer. So this system has to be changed. For example, for the health department, I want a doctor to be the minister. He will have knowledge of medical science and would be aware of the latest facilities to improve government hospitals.
  
• Be practical:
  While reviewing his performance during his first stint as chief minister, Kumaraswamy said, “I lacked experience. I based my decisions on common sense and opinions given by the people. But now, I have improved and I see things practically, which will be useful in delivering good governance.”

• Addressing social issues:
  When asked about his views on providing a safer environment for women, Kumaraswamy said, “This time I am sure of coming back to power. I don’t know how long I will hold the office, but my top priority will be to address social issues. I am not hungry for power, I am ready to sacrifice but not compromise on my intention to provide safety for women.”

• BMTC-Namma Metro merger:
  Sharing his idea over reducing traffic density on roads, Kumaraswamy said it’s only possible by bringing the various public transport systems under one umbrella. “BMTC and Namma Metro should be merged. Transportation facility should be given at your door-step. Only then can we bring down the number of vehicles. If I get an opportunity I will definitely do it.”

• Focus on other cities:
  “We have reached the high point in concentration towards Bengaluru. This can be stopped by concentrating on other districts. For example, there are huge cotton plantations in Bidar, Kalaburagi and Raichur, if we establish industries in these parts, then people of the region need not come to Bengaluru."

• Resolving farmers' issues
  Talking about a solution for farmers' problem in the state, Kumaraswamy said, “I intend to call progressive farmers from all the districts and have an open discussion on the problems that they are facing in their respective regions. Based on this we have to come out with special programmes or package for agriculture.”

• Relationship with Centre:
  “In my previous term, when there was a UPA government at the Centre, I maintained a good rapport with them though I formed a coalition with the BJP here. So, according to me, if I try to go against the central government our state will be affected badly."