Ranjan had won the Assembly election from Somwarpet constituency two times and Madikeri constituency one time. In fact, he himself had recently expressed confidence of getting a ministership this time.
Since the beginning of the process of Cabinet reshuffle, Ranjan’s name was not mentioned in the possible candidates list. Dejected over the incident, MLA has tendered resignation and has sent the resignation letter to the Assembly Speaker’s PA. However, as Assembly Speaker K G Bopaiah is on foreign tour, the resignation may not be accepted now.
BJP leaders and other organisations had been demanding a place for Ranjan in the cabinet since the BJP came to power in the State. However, the voice of the people of Kodagu had not reached the BJP high Command. If Ranjan had got a place in the Cabinet, then he would have got two-and-half years to serve the people. Unfortunately, all his dreams have been dashed.
Ranjan played a vital role in the growth of BJP in Kodagu. After delimitation of constituencies, the number of constituency were reduced to two in the district, hence he had to contest from Madikeri instead of Somwarpet. He had won against B A Jeevijaya by 6,000 votes.
Even the party workers and the well wishers were confident of Ranjan’s induction to the Cabinet. Many feel that Ranjan was not inducted to the Cabinet as one MLA from Kodagu is already serving as the Assembly Speaker.
During S M Krishna’s government, M M Nanaiah, T John, Suma Vasanth had received berths in the Cabinet. During JD(S) government, M C Nanaiah was given the portfolio of Law.
If Ranjan was given a place in Cabinet, he would have got the post of District-in-Charge Minister. The present District-in-Charge Minister has not visited Kodagu so far. Hence, many feel that the government is neglecting Kodagu.
In fact, during Assembly election campaign, Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa had promised to give a place in Cabinet if BJP wins the election. However, by not inducting Ranjan, CM has broke the promise, feel BJP workers.
DH News Service
