Power shift triggers fierce lobbying in Belagavi

Belagavi: Fast-paced political developments in the state, following chief minister Siddaramaiah’s resignation and DK Shivakumar emerging as his likely successor, have intensified discussions on the role of Belagavi leaders in the evolving power structure.Speculation is rife that public works minister Satish Jarkiholi may be appointed Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president, while women and child welfare minister Laxmi Hebbalkar is expected to secure a more influential portfolio in the reshuffled cabinet. At the same time, several senior MLAs from the district have stepped up lobbying efforts for ministerial berths.Sources said the Congress high command has informally sounded out Jarkiholi for the KPCC president’s post, with the condition that he step down from his ministerial position in line with the party’s ‘one person, one post’ principle. Jarkiholi is said to be unhappy with this, reportedly citing instances where exceptions were made earlier, including in the case of DK Shivakumar holding multiple roles.Meanwhile, Hebbalkar is tipped to gain more prominence in the cabinet, being considered a close associate of Shivakumar. Political observers say if Jarkiholi vacates his ministerial post, Hebbalkar could emerge as a strong contender for the role of Belagavi district minister — a possibility that Jarkiholi’s camp is said to be wary of.Former deputy chief minister Laxman Savadi is also being considered for a cabinet berth. Having joined the Congress under Shivakumar’s leadership, Savadi is viewed as a key loyalist. Recently, he triggered a controversy by saying he would resort to hitting with footwear if required, without naming Gokak MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi. The remark is now being seen as an attempt to curry favour with Shivakumar and Hebbalkar, who share political and personal rivalry with Ramesh.Among other aspirants, Ramdurg MLA and chief whip Ashok Pattan, a close aide of Siddaramaiah, is hopeful of cabinet induction. Chikodi-Sadalaga MLA Ganesh Hukkeri, a three-time legislator, has also staked claim, along with senior leaders Mahantesh Koujalagi and Bharamagouda (Raju) Kage. Belagavi North MLA Asif Sait is reportedly seeking representation under the minority quota.With the new leadership taking shape, Belagavi district is witnessing heightened political activity as leaders jostle for influence in the emerging dispensation.