Veteran leader Ramesh Katti, who previously served as chairman of the Belagavi District Central Cooperative (BDCC) Bank, officially submitted his nomination for a director’s role on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
Katti formally filed his papers at the BDCC Bank headquarters in Belagavi, representing the Hukkeri taluk. He was accompanied by MLA Nikhil Katti, various family members, and a contingent of supporters.
This move marks Katti’s potential return to the institution he once led. Last year, he was compelled to step down as chairman after facing a no-confidence motion initiated by several bank directors, which subsequently led to A.M. Kulgude’s election as his successor. Political observers widely attributed this development to a panel spearheaded by former MP Anna Saheb Jolle and MLA Balachandra Jarkiholi.
The rift between Mr. Jolle and Mr. Katti, both prominent BJP figures, reportedly widened after the 2024 Parliament elections. Mr. Jolle accused Katti of withholding support during his campaign for the Chikkodi Lok Sabha seat, a factor he believed contributed to his defeat against Priyanka Jarkiholi, the Congress candidate and daughter of Minister Satish Jarkiholi. Katti, however, refuted these claims, asserting that his distance from the campaign stemmed from the party’s failure to acknowledge his own legitimate claim for the BJP ticket.
Not Seeking the Chairman’s Seat
Addressing the press, Ramesh Katti clarified that he is not currently aiming for the BDCC Bank chairman’s position, nor is he part of any pre-formed candidate panel.
“I don’t see the necessity for internal panel conflicts. I am neither aligned with any existing panel nor do I intend to create one. My campaign is purely as an independent candidate,” he stated. Responding to questions, he hinted at the possibility of several like-minded individuals joining the bank’s leadership. Katti also expressed openness to campaigning for other candidates if extended an invitation, mentioning that he is currently reviewing several such requests after discussions with his close associates and supporters.
“My primary goal is to serve the farmers and the broader community of Belagavi district. The BDCC Bank holds immense importance as a financial pillar, safeguarding the economic well-being of approximately 50 lakh individuals. Its stability is crucial, and I am committed to protecting and fostering its growth. While I don’t seek the chairmanship, my long-standing association with the bank since 1986—including a decade as chairman, five years as vice-chairman, and two decades as a director—equips me with invaluable experience. I simply wish to contribute my expertise and support the bank’s management in any capacity they deem fit,” he elaborated.
Katti Dismisses Jarkiholi’s Allegations
Katti flatly rejected recent assertions by Satish Jarkiholi, who claimed the bank’s deposits had grown by over ₹200 crore since Katti’s departure. “Let’s examine the concrete data and engage in a transparent debate. I will not dignify baseless rumors with a response,” he asserted.
Highlighting his past achievements, Katti proudly stated that his leadership saw the BDCC Bank facilitate record-breaking loan waivers for farmers. “During my tenure, we secured over ₹3,400 crore in waivers, benefiting 3.81 lakh farmers. Additionally, we provided zero-interest loans to 4.58 lakh farmers over the years. My return is to ensure this pro-people agenda continues. Despite whispers that I might be excluded from the bank’s management, I firmly believe no one can isolate me from an institution I dedicated myself to building,” he declared.
Katti further reminisced about the bank’s turnaround under his guidance, recalling how it transitioned from near bankruptcy to profitability. “In 1996, we faced a severe crisis, unable to even pay salaries. Through diligent effort, we managed to turn things around, achieving profitability by 2005-06. At a time when no one was willing to take on the chairman’s role in 1996, I stepped forward,” he explained.
Politics and Cooperation: A Fluid Landscape
When questioned, Katti acknowledged his long-standing friendship with MLA and Congress leader Laxman Savadi, noting their past collaboration in leading the bank. “We anticipate working together again in the future,” he remarked.
He openly admitted that the Jarkiholi brothers had been instrumental in his previous ascent to the bank’s chairmanship, a fact he’s always ready to acknowledge publicly. “While they provided initial support, I also cultivated the trust and confidence of other members,” he added.
Addressing recent disagreements with local leaders such as Mr. Jolle and the Jarkiholi brothers, particularly after his panel’s win in the Rural Electric Cooperative Society of Hukkeri, Ramesh Katti maintained his philosophy: “In both cooperative ventures and politics, there are no perpetual adversaries. Disagreements can arise from differing perspectives, leading to temporary separations. However, it’s always possible for alliances to reform and for paths to converge once more. Anything is possible,” he concluded thoughtfully.