North Karnataka MPs hope for berth in Union cabinet

HUBBALLI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reported plans of a cabinet expansion have raised hopes of greater representation for North Karnataka.
According to BJP sources, MPs from North Karnataka are almost certain to get a berth to fill the slot of Suresh Angadi, the late MP from Belagavi.
If the party decides to pick a Lingayat, then Bagalkot MP PC Gaddigoudar stands a chance since he is seniormost in the party followed by Koppal MP Karadi Sanganna.Ramesh Jigajinagi and Umesh Jadhav are also said to be in race if the leadership decides to elevate a Dalit MP.
As per discussions in BJP units of North Karnataka districts, Gaddigoudar, a fourth-time MP, may be considered as he belongs to the Ganiga community. “Considering his seniority and service as an MP, we hope he’ll get a chance,” said Shantagouda Patil, president, Bagalkot district BJP unit.
There are reports that deputy CM Laxman Savadi, also from the Ganiga community, may be asked to contest bypolls to Belagavi Lok Sabha seat. If he succeeds, he may be elevated to Union cabinet. “There are reports that Angadi’s family members will be considered but BJP has been denying tickets to family members, like it was in the case of HN Ananth Kumar,” said a senior functionary from Belagavi.
Sanganna’s supporters have launched an online campaign for his induction into the Union cabinet. “Sanganna is a second-time MP and five-time MLA. He deserves a place as he belongs to the major Panchamasali sub-sect of the Lingayat community,” said Mahesh Angadi, ex-general secretary, Koppal city BJP unit. “Gulbarga MP Umesh Jadhav who represents the Lambani community among Dalits may not stand since he is a first-time MP,” said a BJP officebearer in Kalaburagi.