Karnataka: Congress alert due to Savadi’s exit, another ‘Operation Lotus’

Bengaluru: After the sudden exit of former chief minister Jagadish Shettar, the Congress leadership seems to be wary of former DCM Laxman Savadi, as Savadi is in close touch with BJP and RSS leaders. AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, speaking at the Republic Day celebrations at the KPCC office here on Friday, warned DCM DK Shivakumar against inducting leaders from other parties into the Congress. “When we want to buy a product, we do a lot of testing. If you want to take someone to a party, you should check his character and background. It is very important to check what ideology they followed and what they are accepting today,” he commented. “Whoever comes to the Congress should be included and empowered. People who come to the party should be loyal.” Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar met Congress MLA Laxman Savadi in Bengaluru on Thursday. (Photo | Express) Savadi was among the key players who planned Operation Lotus in 2019 and helped BS Yediyurappa become chief minister after ousting the Congress-JDS coalition government. He was made MLC and DCM in Yediyurappa cabinet. The party’s national leadership had assigned him the task of campaigning in some areas of Maharashtra and Goa during the assembly elections and sent him to Telangana in 2022. Related Articles Karnataka: Union Minister Joshi had predicted Shettar’s move, but not so soon Karnataka: Union Minister Joshi had predicted Shettar’s move, but not so soon ₹258.03 2 hours ago BJP leader CT Ravi said- Bharat alliance does not exist anywhere ₹204.18 2 hours ago Karnataka: Deputy CM said- Congress workers happy with Shettar’s departure. Karnataka: Deputy CM said- Congress workers happy with Shettar’s departure. ₹237.54 3 hours ago Security breach at R-Day: Man created chaos, tried to meet Karnataka Chief Minister Security breach at R-Day: Man created chaos, tried to meet Karnataka Chief Minister ₹219.80 4 hours ago But later he was ignored and not given ticket from Athani, after which he joined Congress. Since he has proved his capability, BJP can bring him back into the party. According to sources, on the instructions of the RSS, BJP leaders including KS Eshwarappa had held talks with Shettar and Savadi a few months ago and the result was Shettar’s withdrawal. Sources said it would not be a surprise if Savadi also returns to BJP. “If he continues to be in the Congress, the possibility of some of his MLAs taking over the BJP after the Lok Sabha elections cannot be ruled out. He is in close contact with some Congress MLAs including a minister. No return: Savadi In Chikkodi, Savadi clarified that though he has supporters in the BJP who want him back, he will not return. “I have senior leaders, friends and sympathizers because I have spent 20-25 years in the BJP, but ultimately I have to take a decision. There is no question of leaving Congress.” “Savadi is a sensible person. No one including Savadi will leave Congress. There is a list of those who are willing to join the Congress,” Shivakumar claimed on Friday. But as soon as Shettar stepped down on Thursday, Shivakumar reached out to Savadi.