The vertical split in the ruling BJP was more than evident as D.V. Sadananda Gowda took oath as the new chief minister on Friday.
Top leaders of the “party with a difference”, proved with their body language that the differences over the choice of a new CM, had only worsened after the selection of Mr Gowda at Wednesday’s legislature party meeting. Party national general secretary Ananth Kumar and state president K.S. Eshwarappa were obviously squirming in their seats as former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa and his team celebrated Mr Gowda’s ascent to power by showing the V-sign.
A jubilant Mr Yeddyurappa sat on the right side of the dais and encouraged his loyalists, including MLCs and MPs, to celebrate as his arch rival Mr Kumar, sat grim-faced on the left side. The ex-CM’s supporters included Dr V.S. Acharya, Basavaraj Bommai, Umesh Katti, V. Somanna, M.P. Renukacharya, Laxman Savadi and C.C. Patil.
The intent was clear: the BSY camp was keen on proving to the rival faction that the absence of unsuccessful CM aspirant Jagadish Shettar and his supporters, had not really affected them.
The governor’s office had placed five separate microphones for the convenience of ministers expected to take the oath with Mr Gowda. Raj Bhavan sources had been informed that along with Mr Gowda, 10 new ministers will take oath, sources said.
Two seats were also set aside for the new ministers in the front row with tags stuck on the chairs. The mikes were removed after Dr Acharya told officials that only the CM would be taking the oath.
A large number of BJP workers from the new CM’s hometown Mangalore and neighbouring Kasargod in Kerala gave an overwhelming welcome to Mr Gowda as he arrived to take the oath. Mr Gowda touched Mr Yeddyurappa’s feet before he took the oath.