Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Feb 7: Leader of the opposition in the state assembly, Siddaramaiah, has been trying hard to convince C M Ibrahim not to leave the party. He is trying to influence his past fan and follower, Ibrahim, with the help of his confidantes, it is gathered.

Ibrahim, who is known for his deep knowledge of even Hindu epics and scriptures, is also respected for his oratory skills.

Ibrahim was eyeing the post of the leader of the opposition in the council. When the post went to B K Hariprasad, it is said, he was hopeful that he would be made the deputy. But this post was given to U T Khader. Frustrated, Ibrahim had announced the decision to leave the Congress and join the JD(S). As part of his efforts, Zameer Ahmed Khan, who is close to Siddaramaiah, after meeting the latter on Sunday, met Ibrahim in a private programme where he discussed the issue.

Siddaramaiah (left) and C M Ibrahim

When former minister H C Mahadevappa, discussed the issue over phone with Ibrahim for half an hour, Ibrahim expressed to him his frustration at being made to face injustice time and again. Mahadevappa said that at the request of Siddaramaiah, he had spoken to Ibrahim, who expressed anguish at the way the party dealt with him, He said that he will meet Ibrahim soon and discuss the issues again.

Speaking to mediapersons, Siddaramaiah said that Ibrahim is his good friend and that he is sure that he will not leave the party at any cost. "As I am the leader of the legislative party, he nurses anger against me. I will speak to him once his anger subsides," he said.