Cong-JD(S) slugfest will hit efforts to form non-BJP govt at Centre, says HDK
BENGALURU: Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy held out an olive branch to stop the slugfest between leaders of coalition partners on the eve of crucial bypolls to two Assembly constituencies and the last phase of polling in general elections, saying such acrimony would hinder efforts aimed at forming a new government in New Delhi.
The Chief Minister’s move came hours after such hostility reached a flashpoint with senior Janata Dal (Secular) leader Basavaraj Horatti seeking fresh polls on grounds that Congress leaders have violated “coalition dharma” after promising unconditional support to the Chief Minister. Mr Horatti's aggressive stand, albeit personal, caught most of his party colleagues by surprise, as this leader took the initiative to broker peace between Mr Kumaraswamy and CLP leader Mr Siddaramaiah four days ago. Though both leaders were camping in a hotel in Hubballi to campaign in Kundgol and Chincholi constituencies, they did not meet but took to twitter to mirror their differences. Piqued about the “Siddu-for-CM” campaign by camp followers of the Kuruba strongman, Mr Kumaraswamy batted for veteran leader M Mallikarjun Kharge, saying he ought have made it to the Chief Minister’s gaddi long ago as he was much revered in political circles and possessed all attributes of a potential CM. Mr Siddaramaiah retorted saying Mr Kharge deserves to occupy a post higher than that of the Chief Minister, adding many leaders in Congress and JD (S), including public works minister H D Revanna, were talented enough to hold the top post in the state.
In today's message, Mr Kumaraswamy said: “At a time when we are on the verge of forming a non-BJP government in New Delhi, leaders belonging to both parties should not create confusion by issuing conflicting statements.”
Later, Mr Kumaraswamy who arrived in Mysuru, got into a huddle with confidants like Sa Ra Mahesh. Interestingly, the meeting was attended by Mr Horatti as well. The leaders, however, were tightlipped about what transpired in the meeting.
