Janardhan Poojary, Vishwanath may not face action

Bengaluru: Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah’s plan to activate the disciplinary mechanism against Congress veterans B. Janardhan Poojary and A.H. Vishwanath, may not yield the desired results.

Although, KPCC president Dr G. Parameshwar and working president Dinesh Gundu Rao have been consistently issuing ‘strong statements’ against the veterans, it looks like the two leaders may escape the harsh treatment which their outbursts would have normally invited. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, a senior leader familiar with the disciplinary mechanism in the Congress, observed that the remarks are already known to people at the top level and the party is trying its best to make sure these outbursts do not go out of control. “For instance, if a young leader emulates them or a senior leader starts issuing similar statements ahead of the elections, it will be tough for the Congress to beat anti-incumbency. Therefore, Dr Parameshwar and Mr Gundu Rao have been issuing stern warnings to both veterans,” the source explained.

The source added that Mr Poojary and Mr Vishawanth enjoy the silent backing of a large section of party leaders who have not gone public against Mr Siddaramaiah but indirectly endorse the statements of these veterans. “This has been the case ever since Mr Siddaramaiah was sworn in as CM. At the second CLP meeting itself, party legislators started spewing venom against his style of functioning. This has reached a new level, with veterans like Mr Vishwanath and Mr Poojary starting to air these views publicly,” the source contended.

The source said the issue assumed importance only after Mr Siddaramaiah himself insisted on action against the harsh statements made by party leaders against his government. Though the CM did not name any leader, it was clear that he was referring to Mr Poojary and Mr Vishwanath, the source added.