Chikkamagaluru: With chief minister-designate DK Shivakumar preparing to form a new cabinet, the demand for a ministerial berth for one of the five MLAs from Chikkamagaluru district is growing stronger. Despite the case of vote tampering in the Sringeri assembly segment still pending before the Supreme Court, Sringeri MLA TD Rajegowda is considered the frontrunner by many due to his political experience.
Rajegowda's Expertise in Malnad Issues
Rajegowda, who possesses extensive knowledge about the problems of the Malnad region, is expected to bring immediate solutions. Progressive farmer Kalkuli Mallappa Hegde stated, "Rajegowda would be the right person to bring relief." The last person from the Sringeri constituency to become a minister in a Congress government was DB Chandre Gowda.
Demand for Forest Portfolio
The Malenad Karavali Janapara Okkoota has demanded that Rajegowda be given the forest portfolio to resolve key issues plaguing the region, including forest land disputes and human-wildlife conflict, according to Anil Hosakoppa, state convener of the Okkoota.
Retired professor Venkatesh noted that the new cabinet will have only about 18 months for development activities. "Chikkamagaluru is different from other places, and it would take time for a newcomer to understand the problems of the coffee land. A person with utmost knowledge is a better option," he said.
