In hometown, Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai makes sentimental appeal to people to keep faith in him

HAVERI: In an emotional election pitch to voters in Shiggaon, his constituency in Haveri district, where he is facing a backlash especially from the Panchamasali Lingayat community, chief minister Basavaraj Bommai said “power and positions are not permanent and only personal identity is”.
During a brief trip to his constituency on Sunday, Bommai laid the foundation stone for a Panchamasali community hall and unveiled a statue of Rani Channamma on Sunday.His comments come in the wake of rumours that he could be replaced as chief minister if BJP wins the forthcoming assembly elections or even in the run up to polls.
“There is nothing eternal in this world, including our lives,” the CM said. “I have become CM with the blessing of people of Shiggaon-Savanur assembly segment. I served as irrigation and home minister and now CM. I expect the same faith and love from the people of Shiggaon-Savanur.”
Referring to Panchamasali Lingayats, who have been demanding reservation under 2A OBC category for years now, Bommai said his government is ready to give justice to communities that are oppressed.
“I have spoken to leaders of the Panchamasali community regarding the demand for reservation under 2A. I don’t want to share it openly. We will take a decision after the Backward Classes Commission submits its report on reservation,” Bommai said.
Industries minister Murugesh Nirani, who was present, said Bommai will complete this tenure as CM and that BJP will return to form the government. “Bommai will become CM again and he will go on to be Union minister just as his father was,” Nirani said.