BJP MLA Somashekhar’s actions prompt speculation ahead of polls

Team Udayavani, Feb 19, 2024, 9:21 AM IST

As the Rajya Sabha elections draw near, the political allegiance of former minister and BJP MLA S T Somashekhar has stirred debate within the political circles, raising questions about his loyalty to the party or to individuals he is seen with.

Somashekhar’s recent actions have left many wondering about his direction, as he maintains a distance from BJP leaders while openly praising and participating in activities with Congress leaders. His involvement in the election campaign for the Congress candidate in the Legislative Council elections from the Bangalore Teachers Constituency has added to the speculation.

In a recent program titled “Bagilige bantu Sarkara, Sevege Irali Sahakara”, Somashekhar commended Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and his brother MP D K Suresh, highlighting their responsiveness to the needs of the people. He further extended his support by participating in a centenary program of Karnataka Bank in Mangaluru, alongside D K Shivakumar.

This isn’t the first instance of Somashekhar’s divergence from party lines. During the Chief Minister’s budget presentation, he walked out in protest along with opposition parties, although the BJP-JDS alliance did not participate in the protest. Earlier, during a session in Belagavi, he attended a dinner party after a Congress Legislature Party meeting, despite opposition from his party.

His actions during the Belagavi session, where he remained seated during opposition protests and discussions, further set him apart from his party colleagues.

With the Rajya Sabha elections on the horizon, the spotlight is on Somashekhar’s voting intentions. Will he prioritize party loyalty or individual allegiance when casting his vote? The curiosity surrounding his potential cross-vote adds to the intrigue of the upcoming elections.

Somashekhar’s presence alongside DK Shivakumar in Mangaluru has also raised eyebrows, indicating a potential rift with the BJP. Despite past tensions with his party, he has shown support for Congress leaders, including his recent endorsement of CM Siddaramaiah’s budget.

MLA Somasekhar was spotted attending the Karnataka Bank centenary celebrations alongside DK Shivakumar, where the latter inaugurated the centenary building. Following the inauguration, Somashekhar participated in the subsequent meeting, seated among the attendees. D K Shivakumar acknowledged Somashekhar’s presence during the event.

Sources revealed that Somashekhar traveled to Mangaluru with D K Shivakumar by plane and later departed together in a car.