Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Jan 12: Fissures have appeared in the relationship between the coalition partners in the state, JD(S) and the Congress, due to developments taking place after the ministry reshuffle, appointments to boards and corporations, and some other questionable appointments. It is said that these developments have kindled a sense of hope in BJP circles of snatching away power in the state. If the differences between the coalition partners reach a flash, some analysts believe that BJP might try to turn Revanna to their side by offering the post of the deputy chief minister.

Strong stance taken by PWD minister, Revanna, against the Congress since the last two weeks, appointment of Congress lealders to head boards and corporations falling under JD(S) ministers, and certain other developments have made chief minister, H D Kumaraswamy, jittery.

At a time when Congress leaders believe that their leaders are being sidelined and humiliated as far as Hassan district is considered, Revanna continues to overlook their complaints like not yielding to recommendations made by Congress leaders and neglecting Congressmen. Revanna has been reiterating that he is not prepared to show any lenience in the party's stand as far as Hassan district is concerned, as he claims that the district belongs to his party. He says that protecting the interests of his legislators is of prime importance for him.

If the Congress leaders, who are now sulking, decide to take on Revanna tooth and nail, the issue might get aggravated further. Sources say that Revanna will go to any extent to protect the interests of party's six legislators from Hassan district.

At the same time, it is learnt that chairman of coordination committee, Siddaramaiah, is not prepared to loosen his grip as far as appointment of his supporters to certain boards and corporations is considered. Kumaraswamy is also frustrated at pressures being brought on him by Congress leaders. The way he poured out his feelings in an emotionally charged address at the legislature party meeting of JD(S) made it amply clear that he is not too happy.

BJP, it is said, is waiting with expectation that developments favourable to it might begin to happen after Sankranti festival on January 14. Will the saffron party be able to reap the benefits of widening gap between the coalition partners however is a million dollar question.