Bengaluru: The disappointment was observed among certain senior Congress leaders in the Cabinet expansion held last May 27. The exclusion of T. B. Jayachandra, an experienced politician and three-time MLA from the Sira Assembly constituency in Tumakuru District has not only raised concerns among his loyal supporters but also left his granddaughter disheartened too.
Aarna Sandeep, Jaychandra’s granddaughter, in a letter addressed to Rahul Gandhi, expressed her sadness over her grandfather’s absence from the ministerial lineup.
“”Dear Rahul Gandhi, I am T. B. Jayachandra’s granddaughter. I am sad that my grandfather did not become a Minister. I want him to become a minister because he is kind, capable, and hardworking. Please. Thank you, Aarna Sandeep,” she wrote, attaching a cheerful smiley sticker to her message, symbolising her hope for a positive outcome.
The exclusion of Jayachandra from the Ministerial berth is a significant blow to his supporters and the political landscape in the region. Jayachandra’s notable political career includes his tenure as the Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister in the Siddaramaiah Government from 2013 to 2018. His experience, expertise, and contributions to the state administration have garnered immense respect and loyalty from his followers.
Reacting to the news, few of Jayachandra’s steadfast supporters staged a protest at the residence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on May 27, expressing their discontent over the denial of a ministerial position for the veteran leader. Their actions highlight the significance of Jayachandra’s political influence and the disappointment felt by those who recognise his invaluable contributions.
It has been reported that Jayachandra’s exclusion from the Cabinet was primarily due to his age and the fact that he might not contest in the next Assembly elections.
N. S. Boseraju made a sudden undemocratic entry to gain power directly from the High Command without even holding power as an MLC or even as an MLA. This incident has likely given hope to Jayachandra about the Ministerial dream if he struck the right chord with the High Command.
At this point, Aarna having written the letter on her own accord could also be a speculation. Moreover, Jayachandra is also in line for the prestigious Bangalore Development Authority Chairmanship.
Jayachandra has already put his hands into two different pies and only time will tell which pie he actually gets.