Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (MM/NR)
Mangalore, Nov 11: The clouds over the formation of the BJP-JD (S)- combine government in Karnataka, has now happily cleared with the Union Cabinet finally clearing the path for the next chief minister incumbent Yedyurappa, by revoking president’s rule in the State. Yeddyurappa accordingly, will now be sworn in as the next chief minister of Karnakata on Monday, November 12. There are, however, some ifs and buts in this regard. The pertinent question remains - Who are the persons from Dakshina Kannada district to get a ministerial berth in Yeddyurappa’s cabinet?
Out of the 9 MLA’s in DK district 7 MLA’s belong to BJP. From this it is crystal clear that the BJP has a strong base in Dakshina Kannada. Therefore naturally the locals here expect more ministerial posts for their party men in the forthcoming new government.
Krishna Palemar of Suratkal constituency and Shakuntala Shetty of Puttur constituency are both considered to be the strongest contenders for the ministerial post this time. On the other hand, former DK district-in-charge minister Nagaraj Shetty is making all efforts to retain his last portfolio. But it is alleged that the controversial moves made by him, during his earlier tenure in power may hamper his prospects this time around.
Krishna Palemar, who won the MLA seat for the first time, is widely acknowledged and appreciated for the developmental activities undertaken in his constituency. He is known to have carried out several developmental projects not only from government funds but also from his own pocket.
During the last Mangalore City Corporation (MCC) elections, out of 27 wards which come under Palemar’s constituency, 18 wards had been won by BJP candidates. Even in the places like Krishnapur and Kannur where Muslims are in large numbers, BJP candidates have won the MCC polls. This has boosted the charisma of Krishna Palemar. Therefore, BJP supporters here are believed to be vociferously demanding for a ministerial post for Palemar.
One significant aspect of the past coalition government led by H D Kumaraswamy is that it has not given any prominence to women legislators. Hence this time around, women legislators too will be expecting their just share in the coalition government. If the government acquiesces to do so, Shakuntala Shetty of Puttur stands to have a good chance to be in the ‘Yeddyurappa’ cabinet.
Yogish Bhat of Mangalore and Angara of Sullia constituency both have won for the third consecutive time in their respective constituencies. Unfortunately their lobby is not so powerful in Bangalore for them to get a ministerial post, political analysts here opine.
There are just a few days to go before the selection of ministers in the state. Even then the JD (S) is still undecided on deputy chief minister post. However, BJP legislators here are doing their utmost to secure a ministerial berth for themselves in the ‘Yeddyurappa’ cabinet.