Former Karnataka CM Jagadish Shettar Returns to BJP in a Surprise Move

In a surprising turn of events, former Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar has made a comeback to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after briefly joining the Congress last year. Shettar, a six-time MLA, who had served as the Karnataka Chief Minister for 10 months between 2012 and 2013, made the decision to return to the BJP yesterday. This comes as a jolt for the Congress party, which has been facing setbacks in recent times.

The announcement of Shettar’s return to the BJP was made in the presence of senior party leader BS Yediyurappa, his son BY Vijayendra, and other party members. Shettar, who hails from the politically influential Lingayat community, had left the BJP last year after being denied a party ticket. He subsequently joined the Congress and contested in the Karnataka assembly elections from the Hubli-Dharwad Central constituency, a seat he had previously held under the BJP. However, he faced a defeat at the hands of BJP’s Mahesh Tenginakai.

Jagadish Shettar is not new to the field of politics. His political career dates back to the 1980s, and he has held several important positions within the BJP, including state president and leader of the opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. Known for his strong hold over the Lingayat community, Shettar has also served as the Speaker of the Karnataka Assembly when the BJP first came to power in the state in 2008. He has also held ministerial positions, including the portfolio of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj.

The return of Jagadish Shettar to the BJP is likely to boost the party’s prospects in Karnataka, especially among the Lingayat community. With the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, this move comes at a crucial time for the party. It is yet to be seen what role Shettar will play within the party and if he will be entrusted with any significant responsibilities.