The ruling Congress party in Karnataka has completed its selection process for appointing chairpersons to various government boards and corporations. A significant outcome of this process is the decision to replace MLA Raju Kage, who had openly voiced his criticism of the government over insufficient development funds.
This finalized list, comprising 39 names, includes several former MLAs and individuals who were not granted tickets in the previous Assembly elections. The party high command reportedly approved this roster after extensive consultations with State leaders.
Observers view this move as a strategic effort to reassure and energize the party’s grassroots cadre in anticipation of upcoming local body polls.
Among the notable changes, Arun Patil, son of Afzalfur MLA M. Y. Patil, has been proposed as the new chairman for the Northwest Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation, a position currently held by Mr. Raju Kage.
It’s worth recalling that Mr. Kage had previously engaged in a public dispute with senior leader B. R. Patil, who had made allegations of corruption in the allocation of housing scheme benefits. Mr. Kage’s response included his vocal discontent over the scarcity of funds for development projects in his constituency.
The new list heavily features individuals from the Kalyana Karnataka region and the state’s coastal areas, indicating a focus on these geographical segments.
Other prominent figures slated for appointment include former MLA N. Sampangi and S. B. Nanjaiahna Math, former MLC Harish Kumar, and Assembly ticket hopeful Anjanappa. Additionally, Shivaleela, wife of former minister Vinay Kulkarni, Vadnal Jagadish, brother of former MLA Vadnal Rajanna, and party functionary Lavanya Ballal Jain are also among those set to receive key positions.