BJP nets three MLAs from opposition parties

Bangalore, Jul 5 (UNI) In a sudden political development, BJP today succeeded in netting three MLAs from JD(S) and Congress to its fold ahead of the Budget session of the Karnataka Assembly.

Three legislators, who quit were Balachandra Jarkiholi from Arabhavi, Shivanagouda Naik from Devadurg(from JD-S) and Anand Asnotikar from Karwar (Congress).

They submitted their resignations to the Assembly Speaker Jagadish Shettar, led by mediator and Health Minister B Sriramulu.

Mr Sriramulu said three leaders have expressed their quitting from MLAship in support of BJP and will contest by-polls from their respective seats.

Mr Sriramulu was instrumental in getting them to the party fold.

With three legislators joining BJP, which has 110 members in the House, will now help it in achieving the magic figure of 113 for remaining in power on its own without depending on six Independents.

Many more MLAs are likely to join the party in the coming days, he said.

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