Portfolio tussle signals trouble for state, says BJP’s CT Ravi

Shivamogga: Senior BJP leader and MLC CT Ravi Saturday said squabbling over portfolios after the expansion does not augur well for the state, warning that with the Cabinet yet to be fully expanded, the current dissatisfaction among seniors points to chaos once the process is complete.

Speaking to reporters, Ravi said the situation could leave chief minister DK Shivakumar spending all his time managing friction rather than governing.

Ravi suggested that mass leaders like former CM Siddaramaiah remain highly influential and have placed sharp checks on the CM to prevent him from interfering in other departments.

Raghavendra flags early signs of failure

Shivamogga MP BY Raghavendra expressed a similar lack of confidence, stating that while people held out hope for the newly sworn-in govt under Shivakumar, signs of failure are already visible through public expressions of discontent from veteran leaders.

Bhojegowda rebukes ‘demands’ for ministries

JD(S) MLC SL Bhojegowda took a harsh stance against lawmakers throwing tantrums over ministries, declaring that while aspiring to be a minister is acceptable, demanding specific portfolios is an unpardonable offence. Bhojegowda expressed confidence that Shivakumar possesses the political acumen to steer his 136 MLAs and complete the remaining two years of the govt’s term.

‘Annamalai’s decision a personal choice, not mistreatment’

Ravi said he does not agree with the narrative that former chief of Tamil Nadu unit of BJP K Annamalai was mistreated by the party.

He said, “He is highly ambitious and a good man. He will never indulge in politics that harm the interests of Tamil Nadu or national security. He has chosen a new path based on different reasons.”

“I wish him the best in his service to the state and the nation,” Ravi said, adding, “We will maintain our friendship and personal relationship with him.”

“In politics, things do not always go as predicted. As long as someone works for the nation, it is not mandatory that they must only belong to our party, though I do hope he remains within the BJP framework. If he chooses to do good through another path, let him succeed,” Ravi said.