All eyes on 20 Lingayat MLAs of Congress-JD(S) ahead of crucial floor test

There are 20 Lingayat MLAs in the Congress and JD(S) on whom all eyes would be. Will they back the Congress-JD(S) combine or go with the BJP and not prevent a Lingayat leader from continuing as Chief Minister?

The BJP is hopeful that these Lingayat MLAs would cross-vote and save the government. These MLAs have a tough call to make when the trust vote in the Karnataka legislative assembly takes place. On their mind would be their own political career as there is a good chance that the Lingayats may punish them if they prevent Yeddyurappa, the tallest Lingayat leader from becoming the CM.

These Lingayat leaders would keep in mind the deep-rooted discontentment among the Lingayat community after the decision to recommend separate religious status to Lingayats was taken. In the elections the issue backfired on the Congress and four top Lingayat leaders who spearheaded the movement were defeated.

Yeddyurappa after taking oath had appealed to all the MLAs to keep their conscience in mind before voting on Saturday. The floor test would be held today at 4 pm. These leaders would also keep in mind the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and fear that if they vote against Yeddyurappa, there could be a backlash during the general elections. There are 18 Lingayat MLAs in the Congress while two are part of the JD(S).