It's a very very hard decision: Shivakumar on Congress-JD(S) alliance
When BS Yeddyurappa of the BJP resigned as Chief Minister before the floor test in Karnataka assembly, Congress's DK Shivakumar was hailed as 'Chanakya' in keeping the bipolar Congress-JD(S) flock together. But now, a "strong opponent" of JD(S), Shivakumar said he had to swallow "bitterness" and that it was "very, very hard decision (the alliance)....But in the national interest, personal interests cannot come to the fore."
'National Interest' and demands for deputy Chief Ministers
CM-designate Kumaraswamy met the Gandhis yesterday and invited them to his swearing-in ceremony tomorrow, where no other minister will take oath. The 'national interest' of the alliance stands on perks. According to reports, the Congress is betting on two deputy CMs in the Kumaraswamy-led government, but as of now have been given to choose a deputy CM and the Speaker in the Karnataka assembly.
Demand for a Lingayat deputy CM
While Dalit leader G Parameshwara remains the first choice as the deputy CM, there is an increasing demand for another deputy CM from Veershaiva-Lingayat community, led by Congress leader MB Patil. The Congress has 78 seats as against 37 of the JD(S), which makes power-sharing a significant factor in keeping the alliance together. 2 deputy CM posts like in Uttar Pradesh, isn't unlikely.
Upcoming fight for state portfolio
The alliance will have to fight for most of the 34 state minister portfolios, which will be divided as per legislative strength. With higher seats, Congress may get around 20, but the fight will be crucial for portfolios like revenue, home, finance, etc.
