Reddy's loss, Shobha's gain

BJP insiders say the CM is using the current opposition backlash against the Reddys to facilitate close friend Shobha Karandlaje's re-entry into the cabinet

BJP insiders say the CM is using the current opposition backlash against the Reddys to facilitate close friend Shobha Karandlaje's re-entry into the cabinet

While the Bellary Reddys smart under the ongoing opposition onslaught over their alleged role in illegal mining, the CM is reportedly planning to push his confidants including Shobha Karandlaje into the cabinet.

With the cabinet expansion scheduled for the end of this month, Karandlaje, who had to be shown the door due to strong opposition from the Reddy brothers, is said to be working hard to stage a comeback.

Shobha Karandlaje was among the political casualties last year during Yeddyurappa's attempts to rein in the Reddy brothers.

Shobha was among the political casualties last year during CM Yeddyurappa's attempts to rein in the Reddy brothers who had revolted against the state government.

Yeddyurappa reportedly sensed an opportunity to get Shobha back into the cabinet with the opposition demanding a CBI probe into illegal mining and the role of the Reddy brothers in it.
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"It is an open secret that the present crisis is a fallout of internal bickering in the BJP and the CM is bargaining for more power to keep the Reddys under control.
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The situation is conducive for him to use the opposition's stand to his advantage," said a senior BJP leader, on condition of anonymity.

Importantly, the BJP high command is believed to have empowered Yeddyurappa to dropping Reddy brothers Tourism Minister G Janardana Reddy and Revenue Minister G Karunakara Reddy and Reddy loyalist and Health Minister Sriramulu from the cabinet.

"Sushma Swaraj, who is guarding the Reddys, has also softened her stance and the high command has given the CM a free hand. I am sure Yeddyurappa will not let the opportunity go waste," said the BJP leader.

When asked about the elements within the party working against his camp, in the press conference he addressed yesterday, Janardana Reddy said, "I will leave it to God.
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I believe he will punish those who are wrong," while he tried to be politically correct by saying "There are no differences within the party."

While the CM is yet to give his nod to Sriramulu's proposed march to counter the opposition's protest march, Reddy said, "The march will not stop."

Meanwhile, Shobha is quietly preparing for her comeback.

"I don't know what the CM and the high command discussed about the cabinet expansion. I am not aspiring to be inducted into the cabinet. However, if I am given the opportunity, I will do the very best I can," Karandlaje said.

"I am deliberating on the names at this stage," said Yeddyurappa. "I can say the cabinet expansion will happen only after August 12. Those who get in will do so on basis of merit."