Have no differences with anybody in the state, says Krishna

A section of Congress leaders fears that the party may face the backlash of the dominant Vokkaliga community with former chief minister S M Krishna quitting the party. 

Krishna, who hails from Maddur in Mandya district, is one of the prominent Vokkaliga leaders and still holds considerable influence over the community in the old Mysuru region.

The party may face the wrath of the Vokkaliga community if appropriate steps are not taken to contain the damage, a senior Congress leader said on condition of anonymity. Vokkaligas are already said to be upset with the Congress government led by Siddaramaiah for not giving much importance to the community. 

Krishna, who held a press conference, however, refused to comment whether his decision will damage the party.

Excerpts of Kri­s­hna’s interaction with the media:

Media: Will the Congress face the backlash of the Vokkaliga community after your exit from the party?
S M Krishna: I never claimed that I am a Vokkaliga leader. As a leader, I tried to represent all sections of society. It is incidental that I am born in the Vokkaliga community.

Are you upset with the party government in the state for not performing up to the mark?
It is irrelevant. I have no differences with anybody in the state.

It is speculated in the media circles that you are eying at the post of Vice President of India?
Do you think I am mad?

Union Minister D V Sadananda Gowda said you are welcome to the BJP? What is your reaction?
I have not taken any decision on my future plans.

Don’t you think you are ditching the Congress when it is in a bad condition?
I am not ditching the party. I am only quitting.

Do you think you were sidelined after Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi took control of the party?
Being a senior leader I used to follow the party president and not the vice president or a secretary. I think generations can change but values do not.

From when do you think the party started disrespecting senior leaders?
Initially, Sonia Gandhi had maintained a good rapport with the party workers. Now,
I am inclined to feel that the party depends more on managers.
DH News Service