Bengaluru: MLC and businessman BM Farooq is likely to be inducted into the state cabinet under the JDS quota. If sources in the JDS are to be believed, he and Sakaleshapur MLA HK Kumaraswamy (SC) are expected to make their way into the state cabinet in the upcoming cabinet expansion.
A senior JDS leader informed that JDS supremo HD Deve Gowda wants to induct Farooq who helped the party overcome financial issues when it was not in power. “With the resignation of BSP MLA N Mahesh, JDS got one more cabinet minister’s post and this post is expected to be given to JDS MLA from Sakaleshapur HK Kumaraswamy,” he explained.
“The Congress wants cabinet expansion by month end. There is a feeling among the JDS leaders that party quota also must be filled. Keeping this in mind senior Gowda wants Farooq in the cabinet. He is likely to be given an important portfolio,” he added.
“Deve Gowda wants to strengthen the party in the coastal Karnataka where the party has no base. He feels that Farooq is the best bet as he is enjoying a good clout in the region,” he added.