CM joins hands with mutt

AMARGOL(GADAG): In a political masterstroke, chief minister B S Yeddyurappa has teamed up with Sri Balagangadhara Natha Swamiji of the Adi Chunchanagiri Mutt to launch a project to relocate flood-hit villages in north Karnataka.
The CM laid the foundation stone for a project funded by the mutt to relocate two villages in Gadag district on Sunday. By sharing the dais with the head of the mutt considered sacred for the Vokkaligas, the CM tried to send a message that his influence was not limited to Lingayat voters alone.The Swamiji contributed to the effort by praising Yeddyurappa. "He is an ideal leader. He has not rested for a moment since heavy rains have flooded north Karnataka. He has gone around villages meeting flood victims and supervising relief work and collected donations from the common public. He has also met religious leaders and NGOs seeking help in the governments relief work. If there was ever a good leader, it is him'', the swamiji said. He also criticized CMs of the past, by saying:" Everyone knows what kind of people have ruled the state in the past''.
The swamiji said the Adi Chunchanagiri Mutt would expand its activities in north Karnataka by building educational institutions.
Yeddyurappa said the government was safe and there was no political confusion. "As long as I have God's blessings and people's support, no one can shake me'', he said.
Yeddyurappa said relocation of villages was a priority for the government. "We are not just building new villages. We are providing urban amenities in the relocated villages, he said. In a quick function, the CM offered puja to launch the project, made a speech and left for Bangalore. Earlier, the CM told reporters there would be no reshuffling of the cabinet.