30 opposition MLAs to join Congress in Karnataka after LS elections?

Team Udayavani, Apr 6, 2024, 9:01 AM IST

Bengaluru: In a political development that has sparked widespread speculation, it is claimed that 30 MLAs from opposition parties in Karnataka are on the brink of defecting to the Congress party. Sources suggest that the timing for this move has been set post-elections, adding fuel to rumors of an impending government shake-up dubbed “Operation Hasta.”

Sources claimed that Deputy Chief Minister and President of Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), DCM DK Shivakumar, hinted at this during a recent meeting with party leaders in constituencies slated for the second phase of Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing concerns over the government’s stability, he said the administration is not at risk of collapse post-elections. Instead, he asserted that the alleged defection of opposition MLAs to the Congress is poised to bolster the party’s ranks, sources said.

According to party insiders, a significant number of MLAs, including 17 from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and 13 from the Janata Dal (Secular) [JD(S)], are reportedly prepared to switch allegiance to the Congress. It is purported that upon receiving the green signal, these legislators will swiftly join the Congress fold within 24 hours.

Contrary to speculations circulating in political circles, DCM DK Shivakumar reportedly dismissed claims of an imminent collapse of the government after the Lok Sabha elections. He reassured party leaders, urging them to focus on electoral victory without succumbing to apprehensions of uncertainty.