As against a strong perception in the political circle over a possible large-scale cross-voting from Janata Dal (Secular) legislators that could have destabilised the party ahead of the 2023 Assembly elections, the Rajya Sabha elections seem to have provided some relief as the party managed to retain its flock, barring two who defied the party whip.
The fact that Congress leaders’, including Leader of the Opposition Siddaramaiah, alleged attempt to split the JD(S) using the elections did not meet the expectation itself sends out a signal that the party and the leadership remained stable, which is very important in the election year, party sources claimed. Party’s legislator from Kolar Srinivas Gowda voted for the Congress, while Gubbi legislator S.R. Srinivas voted for the BJP.
