Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, May 17: With decks having been cleared for the swearing in ceremony of Yeddyurappa as the chief minister of Karnataka on Thursday May 17 morning, people in coastal Karnataka, who have given a big boost to the saffron party, have begun to actively discuss about the prospects of people's representatives from their region becoming ministers.

It is generally felt that at least four out of 12 BJP legislators elected from Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts might be made ministers. Out of seven legislators elected from Dakshina Kannada, six are new faces. Therefore, S Angara, who has been elected six times as MLA from Sullia constituency, is sure to be elevated as minister.

S Angara, Halady Srinivas Shetty, Sunil Kumar and K Raghupati Bhat

Out of five legislators elected from Udupi district, four are experienced and hence stand the chance of becoming ministers. It is almost certain that Halady Srinivas Shetty, who had missed out once from becoming a member of the cabinet at the last minute in the past, will be the first pick of the party leaders. Shetty has retained his Kundapur seat as BJP legislator and also as an independent without a break in the past.

This time however, chances of MLCs becoming ministers are bleak. Therefore, Kota Srinivas Poojary might miss out, although his surprise induction into the ministry cannot be altogether ruled out.

Sunil Kumar from Karkala, who has been elected for the third time, is young, dynamic, and is a good orator. He has the capacity to discharge responsibilities efficiently. He has links with Bajrang Dal and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He was the chief whip of the opposition in the assembly in the past. The fact that he belongs to Billawa community also goes in his favour.

At the same time, K Raghupati Bhat representing Udupi constituency also has been elected for the third time. The fact that he has defeated a strong contender like Pramod Madhwaraj gives credence to his claim for ministership. However, if caste calculations are given importance, he might miss out. Kaup MLA, Lalaji Mendon, too has a chance to become minister while B M Sukumar Shetty of Byndoor constituency being first time MLA, may not be considered for ministerial berth.

When questioned on Tuesday, both Raghupati Bhat and Sunil Kumar had said that all legislators will jointly work towards developing the district and that they are not particular about becoming ministers.