The strategic chess game for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections on 27th February is underway in Karnataka's political milieu. While Congress is equipped with adequate numbers to elect their three nominees, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) can ascertain one candidate's berth based on current strengths. The Janata Dal (Secular) grapples with uncertainty, reliant upon Congress and independent candidates for its nominee's success.
The narrative takes a thrilling twist with the BJP-JDS coalition fielding a fifth candidate for the 27th February Rajya Sabha elections in Karnataka – a bold challenge for Congress. Ex-Rajya Sabha member Dr. Kupendra Reddy is JD(S)'s choice for the fray. Congress has pitched three runners, and BJP submits one. Looming concerns of potential cross-voting by Congress legislators prevail, particularly post-nomination of Ajay Makan from Karnataka.
What's the game of numbers in Karnataka's Rajya Sabha elections?
Karnataka's legislature totals 224 members. A victory for each Rajya Sabha nominee marks a requirement of 46 votes. BJP, with 66 legislators, retains 20 surplus votes beyond the requisite 46. JDS, with 19 lawmakers, would accumulate 39 votes through BJP's support – still needing 7 more votes to triumph. Sources hint at BJP and JDS themselves fearing cross-voting by their delegates. The election now promises unprecedented excitement.
Congress to secure its legislators in a Bengaluru hotel
For the impending Rajya Sabha vote, BJP has endorsed Narayanaswamy Bandeje, while Congress has confirmed Ajay Makan, Syed Naseer Hussain, and GC Chandrashekhar as their candidates. With intensified electoral activity in the state, Congress has opted to station all its MLAs in a Bengaluru hotel post-assembly session until the vote. Home Minister G Parameshwara stated that the party would prepare a roster for every candidate to ensure legislator votes.
