Bengaluru: In the midst of widespread conjecture surrounding the controversial ‘Operation Hasta’, a phrase that has engrossed political discussions across Karnataka, H. D. Kumaraswamy, the Former Chief Minister and a prominent Janata Dal (Secular) leader, has deftly embarked on safeguarding his party’s interests.
Amidst a recent flurry of political maneuvers and whispers indicating Congress’s potential attempts to orchestrate defections within the Janata Dal (Secular) and the BJP, Kumaraswamy has taken the strategic decision to call a crucial Assembly with his party’s Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
Karnataka’s intricate political scenario has witnessed the ruling Congress, led by D. K. Shivakumar, adeptly embracing several notable opposition leaders into its fold. Against this backdrop, Kumaraswamy’s move to convene a gathering of his party’s MLAs is a testament to his intention to foster unity within the party ranks, thwarting any potential weakening of the Janata Dal (Secular).
Reports indicate that Kumaraswamy has initiated deliberations with 18 MLAs and eight MLCs affiliated with his party. These conversations aim to navigate the prevailing political landscape in the state. This strategic engagement is a responsive action to murmurs among certain Janata Dal (Secular) legislators about overtures from the Congress camp.
One such Legislator, Samruddhi Manjunath, representing Mulbagal, has claimed to have received an offer from the Congress party. Further enhancing his position, Kumaraswamy has additionally opted to convene a meeting of the Legislature Party.
This gathering serves not only to dispel speculations about Congress’ alleged efforts to destabilise Janata Dal (Secular) but also signifies a calculated move in readiness for the impending Lok Sabha elections. Recent days have witnessed a series of significant political shifts, with Congress openly embracing multiple Opposition leaders into its ranks. Notable among them, Ayanur Manjunath, a prominent Janata Dal (Secular) Leader from Shivamogga, formally joined Congress in a ceremonial event attended by Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar.
Similarly, Nagaraj Gowda, an independent candidate in Shikarikpura, has emerged as a notable addition to the Congress fold. This tactical inclusion transcends individual leaders, as the Congress strategically incorporates Former Corporators from diverse Bengaluru constituencies. This manoeuvre aims to bolster the party’s standing ahead of the impending Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) elections, expected to transpire by year-end. D. K. Shivakumar, a pivotal figure in these developments, reportedly directed district presidents to actively recruit local leaders keen on aligning with the party. This organised influx of new members intends to expand the party’s voter base in preparation for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections slated for May 2024. Addressing swirling speculations and the notion of ‘Operation Hasta’, Shivakumar refuted any orchestrated campaign.
He emphasised that the entry of Opposition party leaders into Congress reflects individual decisions rather than any concerted maneuvering. As Karnataka’s political landscape continues to evolve, insiders suggest that Congress is positioned to welcome additional Opposition leaders into its fold in the near future. The dynamic chessboard of Karnataka’s politics is characterised by strategic alliances and tactical moves that hold the potential to reshape the trajectory of the state’s political narrative.