Will continue to oppose projects like Yettinahole: HDK

Chief minister-designate H D Kumaraswamy said on Tuesday there was no change in his stand on the 'misappropriation of funds' in the Yettinahole or other similar projects.

Kumaraswamy said he would continue to oppose projects which are not likely to benefit farmers and which drain public money. He said he would decide on strengthening the Lokayukta after assuming office.

He was addressing reporters during his visit to Dharmasthala in the district, to pay obeisance at the Lord Manjunatha temple.

Kumaraswamy said there was nothing like an illicit coalition in a democracy. Referring to those crying foul over the post-electoral coalition formed by Congress and JD(S), he said, “MLAs from both parties have agreed on common grounds to form a stable government as per the Constitution,” he said.

Terming the decision of forming the coalition as the wish of God, he said Lord Manjunatha himself would decide on the longevity of the government.

Kumaraswamy said his preference after taking over as chief minister would be strengthening the economy of the state. He is committed to strive for the welfare of people in general and farmers in particular. The government would honestly work towards building harmony in the state, he said and called upon the people to maintain brotherhood.

“The people should not indulge in petty politics and shun the attitude of revenge. The people of Karnataka should lead peaceful lives,” the chief minister-designate said.

Kumaraswamy, accompanied by his wife Anita, arrived in a chopper at Dharmasthala at 9.10 am. Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari D Veerendra Heggade received Kumaraswamy at the temple. Later, Kumaraswamy had a brief talk with Heggade at the latter's residence.

At Sringeri

Kumaraswamy later visited the Sharadamba temple in Sringeri in Chikkamagaluru district. He offered prayers at the temple and took the blessings of seer Bharathiteertha Swami.