Daijiworld Media Network - Belagavi (SP)

Belagavi, Jan 28: MLA and Karnataka Milk Federation chairman, Balachandra Jarkiholi, has reminded the BJP leaders that they are enjoying power because of the sacrifices made by people like Ramesh Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumatalli, and Shrimant Patil. Apparently his barbs were aimed at ministers Umesh Katti, Laxman Savadi and Shashikala Jolle.

He recalled that Rajya Sabha member Eranna Kadadi and MLAP Rajeev, who participated in the controversial meeting, have confirmed that it was not official. He however said he does not intend to blow the incident out of proportions. He recalled that Umesh Katti had said that the meeting was called by Kavatagimath but wanted to know from the party why he, Ramesh Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumatalli and Shrimant Patil were not invited. Meanwhile, he said he understands that creating controversy hurts the chances of the party.

"If 17 MLAs had not crossed over to the BJP, these people wouldn't have become ministers, Rajya Sabha member, deputy chief minister etc. Some of them are spreading the rumour that I would be deserting the BJP. I assure you that I will enter the contest from Arabhavi constituency as a BJP candidate. Neither me, nor Ramesh Jarkiholi, have indulged in anti-party activities," he asserted.

In the meanwhile, MLC Lakhan Jarkiholi said that former deputy chief minister, Laman Savadi, is in talks with Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, D K Shivakumar. Speaking to reporters, he urged the BJP to prepare itself to face the 2023 general election by using the potential of Ramesh and Balachandra Jarkiholi, as these two have the capability of bringing 20 MLAs to the BJP. He said he will think over the invitation given by Siddaramaiah to join his party.

Lakhan accused BJP and Congress leaders of jointly defeating BJP candidate Kavatagimath, in the council elections and of calling a separate meeting. He charged Laxman Savadi as being solely responsible for the BJP's defeat. He said that his brothers, Ramesh and Balachandra Jarkiholi, had not worked for his victory in the council election. He asked BJP leaders to keep an eye on anti-party activities and felt that making Ramesh Jarkiholi a minister will prove to be good for Belagavi district.

Satish Jarkiholi said that MLC Lakhan Jarkiholi will not join the Congress and any discussions on the issue will be futile. He added that Lakhan is with the BJP now, and his statement that Siddaramaiah is his mentor is a personal statement.