Daijiworld Media Network - Belagavi (SP)

Belagavi, Nov 19: If rumours making the rounds are to be believed, Ramesh Jarkiholi, the powerful municipal administration minister and leader commanding enormous clout in the district, is preparing to join BJP.

Although Jarkiholi has been denying any such developments, his behaviour has given rise to serious discussions in political circles. His closer association with state BJP president, B S Yeddyurappa, has added feathers to the rumours.

Jarkiholi was found taking part in the marriage of Santosh, personal assistant and relative of Yeddyurappa, at Bengaluru on Saturday. The photograph of Jarkiholi in the company of Yeddyurappa on this occasion has been making the rounds in social media.

It is said that Ramesh Jarkiholi, during his participation in the marriage, held secret parleys with Yeddyurappa for about half an hour. This development has given rise to speculations that he might join BJP anytime after November 20.

Jarkiholi's inertia in handling the protests by sugarcane growers seeking to fix prices for their crops, non-participation in any district level programmes, not taking part in cabinet meetings, and not coming to the rescue of farmers tottering under severe drought, have led the people believe that he is no more interested to remain with the Congress government.