Independents rule the roost in Gokak

Hubballi: In a bizarre poll outcome, thirty of the total 31 seats in Gokak TMC have been won by independent candidates with only one seat bagged by the BJP! Congress leaders claimed that the party had allowed all ticket aspirants to contest as Independents to showcase their personal image and hence did not give the B-form to any of them due to stiff competition to fight the elections.

But  sources said that Belagavi district in-charge minister Ramesh Jarkiholi has been resorting such an election strategy for the past two decades to protect his image rather than that of the party. The BJP managed to win only one seat despite its leaders undertaking a widespread campaign. Political experts explained the victory of Independents saying people always vote for candidates based on their ability rather than looking at the party symbol.  Political power in Gokak has been under the control of the Jarkiholi family for the last few decades. A firm rapport with the people of Gokak has helped the Jarkiholi brothers win most elections.

The group loyal to minister Ramesh Jarkiholi has been in power in Gokak  municipality for the past 25 years though none of its members were elected on the party symbol. The minister said the Congress was facing a dilemma on who should be given ticket due to the large number of aspirants. “We did not give B-form to any  worker and allowed them to contest as Independents. All the 30 candidates who won as Independents had the backing of the Congress party. We are happy that the Congress has a majority in Gokak TMC again this time'', Mr Ramesh Jarkiholi said.