Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Feb 8 : In an interesting development, BJP senior leader and former deputy CM R Ashok has held one round of talks with dissident Congress leader and former minister Ambareesh to invite him to the BJP fold.

Sources close to BJP told daijiworld that R Ashok met Ambareesh in Dubai on February 3 and held detailed discussion. Ashok has reportedly offered Rajya Sabha membership to Ambareesh.

Ambareesh was one of the senior ministers removed from the ministry during the cabinet reshuffle by CM Siddaramaiah. Srinivas Prasad, who was holding revenue ministry and who was also removed from the ministry eventually joined the BJP. Former chief minister S M Krishna was another seniormost leader who resigned from primary membership openly criticising Congress for 'neglecting' senior party members like him.

Both Yeddyurappa and R Ashok are in touch with S M Krishna to try and draw him into the party. It would be interesting to watch Vokkaliga leader Ambareesh's moves in the coming days.

Revolt and departure of senior leaders, one after another from the Congress could be a setback to the party in the forthcoming elections.