JD(S) has emerged as the king-maker whom both Congress and BJP are trying to woo for the mayoral elections in Bengaluru. Agreeing to support the Congress, the JD(S) seems to have put its foot down with demands for power-share and imposing conditions on the Congress.
According to the Times of India report, the JD(S) asked Congress to drop its plans to trifurcate BBMP if it wants JD(S) to back it in the mayoral election.
The New Indian Express reported that JD(S) legislators claimed that the Congress was ready to give them the Deputy Mayor's post, along with three standing committee Chairmanships and five nominations to the BBMP council.
Further, the JD(S) is also expected to use the alliance as a bargaining chip for Rajya Sabha and MLC elections in the future.
The JD(S) has also asked that proposals in its manifesto be implemented. Further, they also want more funds for the BBMP from the State government.
Based on the notification from State government the mayoral elections would be held on September 11. However, five elected BJP Councillors have moved the court for a clarification of voting rights of non-council members. The high court would hear the petition on September 8.
H D Kumarswamy, leader of JD(S), is not forthcoming on his pre-conditions for supporting the Congress. However, he is clear that the Congress should assure that BBMP will not be divided.
