Committee formed to study Lokayukta report, says CM

Mangalore, August 14: Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda on Sunday said that his top priority is people-friendly and swift administration.

During an interaction with media persons hosted by Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists' Union at Press Club here, Chief Minister said that he directed the officials concerned not to keep any files for more than 15 days.

Explaining his mode of governance, Mr Gowda said that he would direct the officials to make notes of media reports highlighting the problems and instruct the Deputy Commissioners of respective districts to make immediate arrangements.

He said that he had directed the officials to give special preferences to 'CM's home district.' “Since finance portfolio is with me, my top priority would be the integrated development of the home district,” he said.

He said during his tenure, no application should go unanswered, especially in Dakshina Kannada district. Authorities should scrutinize all the applications and should respond to the people, he added.

He also said that people should look at police department with respect, not with fear.

Committee on Lokayukta report

CM said a committee has been formed under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary to look into the recent Lokayukta report on illegal mining. Action would be taken on the recommendation of Committee, which is expected to submit the report within a month, he said.

When asked about Somanna's entry into the new cabinet, Mr Gowda said, Somanna has not been indicted by the Lokayukta report, but only son of Somanna.

More power to Lokayukta?

Chief Minister also said he is willing to vest the Lokayukta with more powers. He said final decision on giving greater powers to the Lokayukta will be taken after discussing the issue with the party leaders, colleagues, as well as his ministerial colleagues.

Meet with Principal Secretaries

Mr Gowda said that he would be convening meetings with Principal Secretaries and other officials of the state government from August 16 to 18.

During the meetings, he would chalk-out the developmental works, problems and issues one hour each concerning 24 departments in the state.

There was humour too!

When a TV journalist wanted to know who would be included in third expansion of his cabinet, “Could be anyone, except you” Gowda replied with his hallmark broad smile.

Public hearings

Prior to addressing media persons, Chief Minister received hundreds of applications from the people at Circuit house, Kadri here where public hearing was arranged.