Much like the pre-poll predictions that the JD (S) will emerge as the kingmaker once the results of the Karnataka Assembly elections are out, party sources claim they have been approached by both the BJP and Congress.
JD(S) expects to win over 30 seats in the Assembly polls and party sources expressed confidence that JD(S) chief and former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy is now "not only going to be the kingmaker but is also set to become the king."
Multiple pre-poll surveys predict a hung Assembly with Congress gaining a slight edge. In the scenario, an alliance with JD(S) becomes imperative for both parties. Though BJP has already said it has no qualms about joining hands with JD(S), KPCC president D K Shivakumar has ruled out a post-poll alliance with JD(S).
However, JD(S) national spokesperson and senior leader Tanveer Ahmad told IANS that both national parties - Congress and BJP - are "trying to reach out" to his party for forging a post-poll alliance.
"Both the national parties are definitely trying to reach out to us... We will take a decision at an appropriate time. Right now, I can tell you that we will take a decision for the betterment of Karnataka," Ahmad added.
That said, sources within the party told IANS that JD(S) has "decided to go with the Congress as per the wishes of former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy will become the Chief Minister".
Having already got the ground reports from party workers, Kumaraswamy has boarded a flight to Singapore for a medical check-up and is handling the negotiations from there.
During campaigning, Kumaraswamy had claimed that both national parties - BJP and Congress - will have to come to his doors after the elections.
Both national parties are reportedly concerned about the outcome but have openly expressed confidence in gaining an absolute majority.
The BJP has repeatedly said it saw no possibility of a hung verdict as Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje said the BJP would get 120 to 125 seats and return to power. She ruled out the possibility of 'Operation Lotus'.
"Absolutely not. Have faith. No situation will arise for any sort of 'Operation Lotus'. This time the people of the state will vote for the development of the state and will give a majority government," Karandlaje added.
AICC general secretary in charge of Karnataka Randeep Singh Surjewala met Congress Legislature Party leader Siddaramaiah at the latter's residence here and held discussions. Joining hands with the JD(S) will be tough for Siddaramaiah as he famously doesn't get along with the Gowda family. There are reports that the JD(S) honchos might ask Congress to keep him at bay.
However, state Congress president D K Shivakumar too exuded confidence about Congress winning 141 seats and forming a government with a full majority. He ruled out the possibility of a hung assembly.
