Bengaluru: The balance of power in the Karnataka Legislative Council has tilted further in favour of the ruling Indian National Congress following the results of the latest elections to the Upper House, giving the party a clear numerical edge.
With the new results, Congress’ tally in the Council will rise to 39 members, while the Bharatiya Janata Party will see its strength dip to 28. The Janata Dal (Secular) will be reduced to just six members. The shift is expected to further tighten Congress’ grip over the functioning of the House.
At present, the Council comprises 37 Congress members, 29 from the BJP and seven from the JDS. The terms of three members each from Congress and the BJP, and one from the JDS, are set to expire on June 30. The newly elected members will assume office from July 1, formalising the revised numbers.
Sources indicate that buoyed by its enhanced majority in the Karnataka Legislative Council, the Congress leadership is now working on a strategy to stake claim to key constitutional positions, including the post of the Chairman, in the days ahead.
