Bengaluru, 18 August
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday promised to adopt an inclusive approach towards governance and work with elected representatives across party lines, saying political differences would not be allowed to hinder the State’s development.
Addressing the Legislative Assembly while congratulating newly elected Deputy Speaker Mankal Vaidya, Shivakumar said those holding constitutional offices had a duty to treat all members equally, irrespective of their political affiliation.
He said the Deputy Speaker represented the entire Assembly and not just legislators of the ruling Congress. Public office, he added, should be used to serve society rather than create enemies, pursue vendettas or settle political scores.
“In power, you can either make friends or enemies. I want to make more friends and help everyone. My position should benefit even the person at the bottom of society,” Shivakumar said.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came after Opposition members renewed their demand for the equitable distribution of development funds among all MLAs. Responding to their concerns, Shivakumar cited Swami Vivekananda’s message that one should be courageous in defeat and magnanimous in victory.
Recalling his political journey, which began during his student days, Shivakumar also referred to German statesman Otto von Bismarck’s description of politics as “the art of the possible.”
He pointed out that several BJP and Janata Dal (Secular) leaders had changed parties at different points in their careers to gain power or remain politically relevant. Political circumstances, alliances and individual positions could change with time, he observed.
Shivakumar, however, stressed that political rivalry should never turn into personal hostility. He assured Opposition legislators that the government would listen to their concerns and cooperate with them on matters affecting their constituencies.
Calling for unity in the larger interests of Karnataka, the Chief Minister said the government and the Opposition shared a collective responsibility to work for the welfare of every section of society without discrimination or hatred.
