Only 10 seats for Congress? That’s what survey says

BENGALURU: An internal survey commissioned by the state unit of Congress and one carried out by the state intelligence department have arrived at a common conclusion: the ruling party would not be able to retain its 13 seats in the Legislative Council scheduled to be held on December 27 because of infighting among local leaders.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, a senior leader belonging to the Chief Minister’s camp, in the know of both reports, said “Though the Chief Minister is confident of winning at least 12 to 15 seats, an internal survey and the report of intelligence department are not very encouraging. While the internal survey suggests that the party could be sure of winning eight to 10 seats, that of the state Intelligence department suggests victory in 10 to 12 seats.

“Both reports concur on one issue, that the party has put in “extra efforts” to reach its goal of winning between 15 to 17 seats as the party can exploit bickering within the Bharatiya Janata Party and its own resources where it has absolute sway over co-operative institutions.”

The leader added that Congress could easily add two seats such as Kodagu and Shivamogga, if the leaders successfully exploit bickering among BJP leaders.

“In Kodagu district, former speaker, K. G. Bopaiah is reportedly upset with the party decision’s to field Appacchu Ranjan’s younger son, as his supporters feel that clout enjoyed by Mr Bopaiah will get reduced if the BJP wins. A similar situation had arisen in Shivamogga too, where Lingayat strongman, B. S. Yeddyurappa is upset with his rivals for have a major say in his home district. This being the case, the Congress could easily ensure its victory,” the leader added.

Both reports suggest that rivalry among party leaders could cost dear for the party in constituencies such as Chikkaballapur-Kolar, and Tumakuru, while the presence of rebels in Udupi-Dakshina Kannada, Bengaluru (Urban) and Uttara Kannada districts are likely to upset the party’s prospects.