Trust deficit haunts Congress, JD(S)

MYSURU: The Congress-JD(S) alliance for the general elections appears to be suffering from a deficit of trust over working for each other’s benefit. A day after tourism minister Sa Ra Mahesh’s veiled threat that JD(S) will adopt a titfor-tat approach should Congress workers refuse to work for JD(S) candidates — Nikhil Kumaraswamy in particular — former chief minister Siddaramaiah warned JD(S) leaders against issuing statements that can cause a rift between the coalition partners.
“The minister’s statement indicates that he is looking at Congress suspiciously,” Siddaramaiah said on Sunday. “It is wrong. How can he be suspicious about Congress’ moves when the parties have not yet launched campaigns?”
At a JD(S) convention in KR Nagar, Mysuru on Saturday, Mahesh had said JD(S) workers will not work for the Congress candidate in Mysuru-Kodagu constituency if Congress workers do not support Nikhil in Mandya. Mahesh’s comments came amidst murmurs in political circles that Sumalatha Ambareesh’s decision to contest from Mandya was prompted by a section of Congress leaders.
“Both parties have decided to face the elections as allies based on mutual trust,” Siddaramaiah said. “But, statements like the one made by Mahesh would lead to mistrust and confusion between workers of both parties.”
In Mandya, former minister N Cheluvarayaswamy reminded JD(S) leaders that they have to bank on Congress’ support in segments like Tumakuru, Bengaluru North, Chikkaballapur and Shivamogga where Congress holds the edge. “His (Mahesh) comment has created confusion in Mandya segment. It was improper. Does he not want our support?” Cheluvarayaswamy said while urging senior JD(S) leaders to step in and explain their stand.
Senior Congress leader HC Mahadevappa said leaders of the two parties should cooperate and work together. Speaking to reporters after meeting Siddaramaiah at his residence, Mahadevappa said: “I believe the minister has said leaders and activists of the two parties should cooperate and work for the benefit of each other.”