In a startling turn of events, the Janata Dal (Secular) state president C.M. Ibrahim has unequivocally rejected former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda’s decision to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Ibrahim, who refers to his faction as the “original JDS,” declared that his group, committed to secularism, would not align with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
This bold move by Ibrahim has raised concerns about a potential rift within the JDS, as he openly criticised Deve Gowda’s alliance plans. Speaking to reporters following a brainstorming session with some party leaders, Ibrahim said, “Our first decision is not to go with the NDA. Our second resolution is to appeal to Deve Gowda not to agree to this alliance.” He further stressed the departures of JDS leaders in neighbouring states, such as Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, following the BJP-JDS pact.
Addressing Deve Gowda directly, Ibrahim conveyed a heartfelt message, saying, “We still have love for you. You are equal to our father. We will tell Deve Gowda that we should not have anything to do with BJP.” As the state president of JDS, Ibrahim asserted his authority to make decisions about the party’s direction in Karnataka, regardless of the preferences of Deve Gowda and H.D. Kumaraswamy.
Responding to queries about the possible repercussions of his decision, Ibrahim maintained his stance, stating, “I am the state president. I have to decide about my party in the state. We have already decided not to go with the BJP. If Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy have decided to go with the BJP, let them go.” Ibrahim also alluded to the involvement of several JDS MLAs in discussions, although he refrained from revealing their identities at this juncture, citing concerns about undue pressure.
Meanwhile, former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy offered a measured response to Ibrahim’s announcement, characterising the state president as “very independent” and expressing a willingness to await his final decision.
Notably, party workers and leaders had reached a consensus on forming an alliance with the BJP before Ibrahim’s declaration. In light of the unfolding developments, Ibrahim is set to establish a core committee that will meet with Deve Gowda to communicate the decisions reached during the day’s meeting. The situation remains fluid, and the course of action for the JDS in the lead-up to the Lok Sabha elections hinges on the choices made by its leaders and MLAs.
The political landscape in Karnataka takes an unexpected twist as the JDS grapples with internal dissent and alliance considerations in the run-up to the crucial elections. The decisions taken in the coming days could significantly impact the state’s political dynamics and the broader national scene. Watch this space for further updates on this evolving story.