from Daijiworld's politicial correspondent

Bangalore, May 27: There was absolutely no doubt about the Janata Dal (S) fourth candidate and former minister Amaranath Shetty Kodman winning the legislative council elections to be held on June 1, said state chief minister H D Kumaraswamy here on Friday.

He further said the every party would indulge in 'politics' for the sake of elections. So JD(S) would through politics ensure the victory of its fourth candidate, Amaranath Shetty.

Although an electoral adjustment was to be worked out and all the three major parties, Congress, the BJP and JD(S) have now fielded four candidates each. Shetty's candidature was decided upon at the eleventh hour. His selection as a candidate to some extent may have surprised himself, said party sources here. He was asked to make a dash to the state capital and file his nomination papers just before the last date.

It is widely believed that should he win, he would win a berth in the state cabinet. Party sources also said that the coalition partner BJP may not be happy with such a prospect because at present there are two ministers representing DK and Udupi, B Nagaraj Shetty and Dr V S Acharya, both of BJP and both in-charge ministers of the respective districts.

Shetty's being made a minister may bring down the dominance of the BJP in the two districts, feel JDS sources. It is for this purpose that the BJP may not like to see Shetty winning the election, said a party leader on condition of anonymity.

As things stand, there are twelve official party aspirants for 11 seats, which has necessitated the election. Shetty's entry into the scene has added special interest to the election.