BELAGAVI, 22 JULY

In a surprising move in Belagavi’s political circle, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi and former BJP MP Ramesh Katti represented Chikkodi constituency, were seen behaving like close friends at an event organised by the Jain community in Harugeri town in Raibag taluk. This comes just a few days after they locked horns.

It may be recalled that Katti, on Saturday, targeted Jarkiholi, who was also trying to enter local politics. He had said that he would not allow outsiders to rule or interfere in the affairs of his taluk. 

The duo disagreed with each other over the election of members to Hukkeri Private Electric Supply Corporation Ltd and Belagavi District Cooperative Credit Bank (BDCC).

Jarkiholi said he would reply to Katti’s remarks. However, during the Jain community event, both were seen on the stage holding a serious discussion.

Lingayat legislators of the district met at a Mutt in Kolhapur last week, where a decision was taken that the Lingayats will be in control of BDCC. Former minister AB Patil alleged that former Chikkodi BJP MP Annasaheb Jolle caused his defeat in the previous polls, adding that Jolle used the Lingayat community for his political gains.