The Hindu : Karnataka News : ‘Krishna’s second innings is certain’

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Wednesday, Jan 30, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka

‘Krishna’s second innings is certain’

Shankar Bennur

His comeback is likely by February 15

MYSORE: Congress leaders in Mandya district are upbeat about the possible return of Maharashtra Governor S.M. Krishna into active politics in the State. The party workers and the people of Mandya, the home constituency of the former Chief Minister, had always wanted Mr. Krishna to remain in State politics. They have waited three years for his return.

Several district Congress leaders, who had been in constant touch with Mr. Krishna after he left the State for a gubernatorial stint in Maharashtra, maintain that the former Chief Minister is all set to make a comeback to State politics by February 15 on an “important assignment” in view of the coming elections.

“His second innings in State politics is almost certain. We have been told that the high command has cleared his re-entry. It is just a matter of time. Not just party workers of Mandya, but party workers from across the State are anxiously awaiting his return,” a senior Congress leader said. “He is a leader who inspires everyone in politics,” he added.

Mandya District Congress Committee President K.B. Chandrashekar told The Hindu that a number of party functionaries met Mr. Krishna when he was in the State recently, following the death of his sister.

“We made a fervent appeal to him to return and be a guiding force to the party. He has assured us to consider their request and will soon take a decision. The time has come for him to make a move,” he said.

“The people of Mandya never saw him as the leader of the Vokkaliga community, but as a leader of all sections of the society. Therefore, the district is anxiously awaiting his return,” Mr. Chandrashekar said.

He added that all seven constituencies in the district would go to the Congress in the coming election if Mr. Krishna returned.

“In the previous election, the Congress lost the electoral battle in four constituencies with a thin margin. We won in two constituencies — Keregodu and Kirugavalu. But this time, the scenario will change and the victory will be ours,” he said.

Though Mandya is considered a stronghold of the Congress, the party was drubbed in the last election following Mr. Krishna’s decision to contest the election from Chamarajpet constituency in Bangalore.

“The people mistook his decision and voted against the party for deserting his home constituency, Maddur. Perhaps the people have realised their mistake and want to see him soon as a neta,” sources in the Congress said.

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