Date:21/10/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/10/21/stories/2008102154240400.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

S.S. Patil joins BJP

BANGALORE: Congress leader and former Cooperation Minister S. S. Patil joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday. Mr. Patil, a former Janata Parivar leader, joined the Congress some years ago.

Mr. Patil joined the BJP in the presence of Chief Minister B. S. Yeddyurappa. Speaking to reporters later, Mr. Patil said his close association with Mr. Yeddyurappa and his effective style of functioning had encouraged him to join the BJP. — Special Correspondent