Bengaluru: Congress is now facing a second major hurdle on portfolios. Hours after Ramalinga Reddy climbed down on his demand for Bengaluru portfolio and took charge of irrigation dept on Monday, Krishna Byre Gowda has decided to not take charge of Bengaluru development dept due to “lack of clarity” over certain civic agencies.The most-sought-after department is split vertically, with planning authorities staying with chief minister DK Shivakumar. “Without the planning agencies under him, how can a Bengaluru development minister function,” said a party leader, explaining Byre Gowda’s dilemma.The planning authorities include Bangalore Development Authority, Bangalore Metropolitan Region Development Authority and Bangalore International Airport Area Planning Authority.Sources said the matter has reached the party high command. Byre Gowda reportedly met Shivakumar last week, saying he won’t take up charge till planning authorities are brought under his control.The argument made before the CM was that the officials who are in charge of the urban development department shall have to report to two bosses — the CM and also Byre Gowda — on the same issues related to development of the City.“This is expected to create conflicts. The CM’s order will eventually prevail over the minister’s directions,” said a source. It is claimed the party is yet to communicate its stand on the portfolio since it was busy with INDIA bloc meeting.CMO officials said Shivakumar is expected to resolve the issue himself and convince Byre Gowda to take charge soon.
