Two former CMs in the same floundering boat

Surprisingly, neither the Congress nor the BJP have so far reciprocated the duo’s call with any amount of enthusiasm. The two former chief ministers who initially sounded confident that the national parties would jump at their offer, have, of late, started worrying over the delay in striking the alliance.

Undoubtedly, Bangarappa and Hegde are two popular leaders in the Karnataka political scenario today, whose presence in any election would definitely be felt by other political parties. But, both are known for their high-handedness and authoritative attitude towards political workers, especially other leaders. Many politicians would not like to have them in the party because of their impulsive behaviour.

While Bangarappa has already made it clear that he would like to be an "engine" rather than carry on as a "bogie" in politics, Hegde too is known as a highly egoistic politician. It will be very difficult for them to come to an understanding with a political party as the two are known to be too demanding in nature. Compromise may be the last straw for them. Both may not settle for what they are really worth in case they go with major political parties.

Enquiries with the State Congress and BJP leaders reveal that the two are not "in demand" as far as political parties are concerned. There joining any political party may be advantageous to others but political parties would be more worried about the post-poll scenario.

"We all know Bangarappa and Hegde very well. Both are unmanageable for any political party, as evident from their track record. No state unit of any national party will really be interested in having any link with them", said a senior politician.

The Congress party in the state is in an advantageous position compared to the party units in other States. With the party winning 11 seats in the just-concluded council elections, morale is high. Congress would like to have Hegde’s support merely to make up for the damage created by Bangarappa. But it may have to think twice before accepting him. "We don’t know how he would behave after the elections. Hegde has not even spared Janata Dal. He has been claiming that he was responsible for the victory of all the 16 candidates in last Lok Sabha elections".

As far as the BJP goes, it is a party which is growing steadily. BJP may not go out of the way to woo Hegde or Bangarappa. BJP would rather prefer that the two go alone, a situation which would only help the BJP most. While Hegde will cut into JD’s votes, Bangarappa will destroy the Congress. As far as the JD is concerned, Lok Shakti will cut into its vote bank and the only way they can make up for the loss is to rope in Bangarappa.

Bangarappa has already attacked the JD for its non-performance in the State and is also fully aware of its internal squabbles which has led the party to come to a point of split. Given the scenario, they may have to contend with themselves or go in for a forced marriage if other attempts to tie-up fail.