'Ministers' baithak was successful beyond expectation'

Claiming that the three-day ‘Chinthan Baithak’, organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party State unit at the Suttur pilgrim centre in Nanjangud taluk, was “successful beyond expectation”, chief minister B S Yeddyurappa said here that the ministers who had participated in the brain-storming session were of the unanimous view that further responsible functioning would bring about an overall change in the administration.

Speaking to Business Standard after a press briefing, he said the session had reviewed the decisions taken by the Government in the last 16 months and its benefit to the people. The ministers were of opinion that if worked collectively they could achieve greater progress.

“In the coming days, there should be more interaction with the public so that administration becomes clean and transparent, cutting down wasteful expenditure. In some districts, the concerned district in-charge ministers could function further effectively, building better rapport with the district level officials,” he said.

“Overall, the session was successful beyond expectation,” Yeddyurappa said, expressing happiness of its outcome and underlining need for more such sessions at different levels, probably once in six months. In another two months, a similar meeting will be organised for the party legislators.

He said the breakfast meeting with Opposition parties convened on October 5 was to discuss and seek suggestion on improving financial situation and development works in the State. A Cabinet meeting later will decide on the dates for convening the Assembly winter session. Efforts would be made to hold Assembly session for a minimum period of 56-60 days. The Speaker will be requested to set apart one opening day for Opposition issues.

The unexpected rains, the Chief Minister said had resulted in floods in 11 districts and damage to 16,652 houses. The district in-charge ministers and Deputy Commissioners had responded immediately to meet the situation. He made it clear that finances were no obstacle for relief works.

The chief secretary had reviewed the situation on Thursday. Military aircraft, boats and rescue teams are being readied for rescue operations. He was visiting Haveri district on Saturday evening to assess the situation.