Bengaluru, Jan 15 (NationPress) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, declared on Thursday that he will not withdraw from Karnataka's political landscape. "I am part of politics. The citizens of the state will determine my role. Based on their aspirations, I will decide when to return to state politics," Kumaraswamy stated.

While responding to questions from the media near his home in Bengaluru, the Union Minister remarked, "We (BJP-JD-S) are integral to the NDA alliance. There should be no confusion within this coalition. Our goal is to establish a robust government in the state. This is my personal commitment."

"If anyone believes that I am distancing myself from state politics, they are mistaken. I will remain engaged in state politics. At the Centre, the Prime Minister has entrusted me with responsibilities across two ministries, and I will choose the right moment to return to state politics. There’s no escaping that," he responded to a query.

"I am continuously monitoring the administration's performance in the state. A good government is essential for the people to live in peace. Whatever position the citizens assign to me, I will respect their decision. This is beyond my control," he pointedly replied.

In response to the threats and abuses directed at Shidlaghatta Municipal Commissioner Amrutha Gowda by Congress leader Rajeev Gowda, Kumaraswamy noted that since the Congress-led government took office, reports of harassment against government officials have escalated.

"This is unacceptable. I have already alerted the state Chief Secretary regarding the Shidlaghatta incident. However, no action has yet been taken," he stated.

Kumaraswamy expressed concern over the incident where a Congress leader from Sidlaghatta allegedly threatened a state government official. "This is truly unfortunate. Workers and leaders from all parties must treat government officials with respect. If stringent action is taken in a few cases, it will serve as a valuable lesson," he advised the Karnataka government.

"There is a prevalent culture within the state government that pressures officials to achieve results. From ordinary party workers to those in power, there is undue pressure on officials to engage in illegal activities. Such situations arise when the state government fails to function properly. A functioning system would prevent such incidents," the Union Minister expressed his strong discontent with the Karnataka government.

He also warned government officials to execute their duties diligently.

"If officials partake in illegal activities for promotions or postings, they will face repercussions. Recently, I came across an editorial titled 'Poor quality work; six responsible'. It highlighted irregularities by engineers during the Vidhana Soudha construction. After eight years, the Lokayukta has mandated action against the officials. Therefore, officials should not succumb to pressures from elected representatives. They must work with integrity and ensure compliance with government regulations," Kumaraswamy remarked.

The Union Minister also conveyed Makar Sankranti greetings to the people of the state.

"Sankranti is a festival for farmers. I hope that nature remains kind this time without unexpected weather changes. Sankranti symbolizes the harvest and prosperity of our land. On this auspicious occasion, may good fortune befall everyone. Just like sesame and jaggery, may happiness, peace, and harmony flourish in every household, and may everyone be blessed with longevity and good health," he concluded.