Change in state unit chiefs' post, talks on in Big 3 parties

EVEN as there are no big elections, except for BBMP and zilla and taluk panchayat polls likely sometime this year, talks are on to change state presidents in all three major political parties — Congress, BJP and JDS.

- DEVARAJ B HIREHALLI @Bengaluru

In the ruling party Congress, lobbying is intense as the high command is deliberating on replacing Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar in adherence to the party policy of one man one post. Names of ministers Satish Jarkiholi from the ST Nayaka community, MB Patil and Eshwar Khandre — both Veerashaiva Lingayats, have been doing the rounds for a long time. Since Chief Minister Siddaramaiah represents the AHINDA community — acronym for minorities, backward classes and Dalits, the high command is unlikely to consider Satish for the post for now, said a Congress leader. Khandre from the Kalyana Karnataka region would be the best bet as he is ready to quit as minister if given the post.