Date:10/03/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/03/10/stories/2006031007820400.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

JD(S) may pick Rajasekhara Murthy

Special Correspondent

Bangalore: The former Union Minister M. Rajasekhara Murthy, who expressed support to Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy when he decided to join hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party to form a coalition government in the State, is likely to be the Janata Dal (Secular) Rajya Sabha candidate. With 46 legislators in the Kumaraswamy group, his election is expected to be smooth.

JD(S) national President H.D. Deve Gowda, who has washed his hands of the new coalition arrangement in the State, is expected to keep away from any discussion pertaining to the Rajya Sabha elections. Sources in the JD(S) said the Chief Minister and the former Deputy Chief Minister M.P. Prakash will make a formal announcement of the party candidate.

Interestingly, Mr. Kumaraswamy said a few days ago that Mr. Deve Gowda will choose the candidate. Mr. Deve Gowda has now left the matter to his son.

Mr. Murthy, a former BJP member of the Rajya Sabha, resigned five months ago and joined the JD(S).