Daijiworld Media Network - Hassan (SP)

Hassan, Apr 25: Former Prime Minister, H D Deve Gowda, and state chief minister, Siddaramaiah, were sworn enemies till recently. While Deve Gowda nursed anger at Siddaramaiah for ditching his party and joining hands with Congress, Siddaramaiah felt that Deve Gowda betrayed him when he was about to become chief minsister of the state in the past.

Of late however, there is widespread belief that the two leaders have changed their attitudes towards one another. Deve Gowda helped Congress to register victory in the bypoll by not fielding any candidates in Nanjangud and Gundlupet constituencies.

At a programme held at Shravanabelagola in the district on Monday April 24, the leaders were seen to be very close. Deve Gowda placed his arm over the shoulder of Siddaramaiah, went up the dais with him and chatted with him in a friendly atmosphere. Deve Gowda, who seemed to have decided to sink past hostility, also was seen speaking to Siddaramaiah in hushed tones.

In his address, Deve Gowda appreciated his yesteryear close aide for releasing state's share for completion of Hassan-Bengaluru railway line besides sorting out land acquisition problem there, duly mentioning that this railway line got inaugurated in his presence. Siddaramaiah acknowledged that people in JD(S) are close to him. He said in spite of political enmity which is temporary in nature, he attaches importance to personal relationships. He said he has requested Deve Gowda to pressurize the central government to release funds liberally for Maha Mastakasbhisheka being held here next year and requested Gowda to lead another delegation to the Prime Minister on this issue.

During the last assembly election, both the leaders had kept distance. However, during the election of mayor for Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike, they came together and struck an understanding although many people from both sides were against it. Their relationship has improved further in the recent past.