The most-awaited taking of charge by the new minister of an otherwise "low-profile ministry" was that of Science and Technology; with senior Congress leader Jaipal Reddy allegedly reluctant to take over charge. Addressing the media at a press conference after taking charge around 5.30 pm, Reddy however tried to brush off the perception that certain corporate houses were behind his removal as Petroleum Minister. “In all matters it has been my policy to be a faithful party man and a truthful minister,” Reddy said.
Asked whether he had been victimised, Reddy said, “My relationship with the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is excellent. He took me into confidence about change in portfolio. I never haggle or bargain for portfolios. No minister is told about the reason for change in portfolio.”
Even before the change in portfolios was announced on Sunday afternoon, reports started circulating that Reddy was extremely upset with his removal from the Petroleum ministry and being given a demotion to Science and Technology ministry. Reddy, kept away from journalists the whole of yesterday and most part of today. The fact that he was not present during the handing over charge to the new incumbent Veerappa Moily raised eyebrows. Reddy however refuted this stating he did not what time Moily was taking over.
Questioned about the Opposition and civil society allegations that corporate houses had started wielding influence on ministerial berths and he was paying the price for snubbing corporate interference in Petroleum minister, Reddy said, “There must be healthy interaction between politicians and business houses. I have never been influenced or pressurized.”
Asked about his earlier decisions as Petroleum minister in particular that pertaining to the Krishna Godavari basin Reddy said, “The KG basin is our national asset although it is closely associated with Andhra state. As a minister, I just implemented policies. Policies are laid down and as a minister we go by norms.” He refuted suggestions that he was sulking or had any regrets.
Rather he attempted to convey that the Science and Technology ministry was a crucial knowledge ministry with a budget of Rs 60,800 crore with vital scientific pursuit linking it to the country’s development.
He put it on record that reports suggest he is unhappy with his new profile, but "I was never happy when I was given Petroleum, now too I am not unhappy.” On a more philosophical vein Reddy said, “No man of integrity is ever destructive.”
He howver signed off the presser with a one liner that left everyone smiling, “Thanks to my high profile, my ministry will soon be high profile.”