In a development that could test the stability of Karnataka's Congress government, Independent MLA from Indi constituency Basangouda Dajigouda has publicly demanded that the ruling party honor its pre-election commitment of granting him a ministerial position.
The MLA, who represents the Indi constituency in Vijayapura district, revealed that Congress leaders had approached him before the elections with a specific proposal. "They came to my house and requested my support," Dajigouda stated emphatically. "They promised me a ministerial position if I supported the Congress and their government was formed."
Mounting Pressure on Coalition Government
The political landscape in Karnataka is heating up as the Independent legislator makes his expectations clear. "Now, the Congress should keep its word and make me a minister," he asserted, indicating that his support came with clear conditions that now need fulfillment.
This demand comes at a crucial time for the Siddaramaiah-led government, which relies on the support of independent legislators to maintain its majority in the assembly. The public statement serves as both a reminder and a warning to the ruling party about the expectations of its alliance partners.
Strategic Positioning in Karnataka Politics
Dajigouda's straightforward approach highlights the delicate balance of power in coalition politics. His decision to go public with the pre-poll agreement suggests growing impatience with the pace of political appointments within the new government.
The MLA's demand underscores the complex negotiations that often characterize regional politics in Karnataka, where independent legislators can wield significant influence despite their limited numbers. The Congress leadership now faces the challenge of managing expectations while maintaining coalition harmony.
Political observers are watching closely to see how the Siddaramaiah government responds to this public pressure, as the outcome could set precedents for future dealings with supporting legislators and impact the government's stability in the coming months.
