H D Kumaraswamy: Weakened BJP seeking support from Cong & JD(S)

BENGALURU: A day after state BJP president B S Yeddyurappa extended an open invitation to dissident JD(S) and Congress MLAs to join the saffron party, chief minister H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said it's a clear indication of the BJP becoming "weak". Kumaraswamy said: "Yeddyurappa recently admitted that the BJP requires strengthening. That's why he has made an open offer to Congress and JD(S) legislators." Congress minister Ramesh Jarkiholi said BJP can say whatever it wants to but a section of the party's MLAs are already in touch with them and are willing to switch loyalties. When asked about the number, he said: "I can't say how many BJP MLAs are in touch with Congress. The final decision will be taken by the party high command. But they will be poached soon." Siddaramaiah has done Cong a favour: Ramesh Despite the warning from KPCC chief G Parameshwara to avoid making controversial statements, municipal administration minister Ramesh Jarkiholi on Saturday backed Siddaramaiah's stand on the budget."His objection to presentation of a full-fledged budget has helped Congress because the coalition partner has agreed to continue the party's schemes,'' he said. Asked about water resources minister DK Shivakumar's statement that people in Congress don't worship individuals but only the party, Ramesh said: "That may be his personal opinion. But we remember those who have done us a favour. Siddaramaiah has done Congress a favour." Batting for his brother Satish to take over as the KPCC chief, Ramesh said: "The party must consider a leader from North Karnataka. Source: Times of India