JD(S) seeks BJP, Cong support for Council chief's post

 JD(S) MLA Y S V Datta has sought the support of the Congress and the BJP for ensuring party MLC Basavaraj Horatti’s unanimous election as Chairman of the Legislative Council.

Datta told reporters that Horatti has been elected to the Council for the seventh successive term. “It is a historic achievement. Hence, Horatti should not be considered as just a JD(S) legislator,” he said.

Datta said all political parties stood exposed during the recent Rajya Sabha and Council elections. “By convention, the ruling party claimed the Speaker post in the Assembly, leaving the Chairman’s post in the Council to the Opposition. This should continue,” he said.
Replying to a question, Datta said he has respect for Chairman DH Shankarmurthy. “It is not that we want Shankarmurthy to be removed. But when time comes to make Horatti the Chairman, then everybody should co-operate,” he added.