JDS dissidents set for showdown with Gowda

More than two dozen legislators are expected to attend the meeting, said sources close to Prakash, a leader from the prominent Lingayat community and a former minister.

Prakash has been critical of the party leadership which, in a sudden U-turn, decided to support a BJP-led Government and then after a few days decided to vote against it on the floor of the Assembly.

The JDS has convened a meeting of prominent party leaders on Thursday to discuss the political situation. Prakash8217;s supporters have accused Deve Gowda of running the party in a dictatorial manner. Prakash had said in Hubli on Monday that 8220;I don8217;t want to be in a party where there is no internal democracy8221;.

However, he told reporters here on Tuesday that he still believed in the leadership of Gowda. 8220;I will not do anything that will result in the break up of the party8221;, said Prakash.

Discontent is brewing in the party after JDS snapped ties with the BJP. Prakash said those participating in Wednesday8217;s meet, also to be attended by 8220;like-minded8221; leaders, would stay away from the one convened by Deve Gowda.