Bengaluru, 08 Nov (H.S.):

The Congress government in Karnataka is facing mounting political pressure over rising living costs and growing internal differences, with the opposition BJP preparing to launch widespread protests against increases in bus fares, milk prices, electricity tariffs and other essential charges.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is attempting to contain public dissatisfaction while managing tensions within the ruling party, particularly between his supporters and those loyal to former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The reported differences have intensified following a controversial sting operation allegedly targeting Siddaramaiah and the subsequent Bengaluru police investigation.

The Congress leadership is also facing criticism over the party's defeat in elections to four Legislative Council seats.

Former minister and Congress MLA K.N. Rajanna questioned the party's performance, pointing out that Congress had 26 MLAs among the 35 legislators in the constituency concerned. His remarks prompted Urban Development Minister H.C. Balakrishna, considered close to Shivakumar, to demand disciplinary action.

Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah reportedly conveyed his dissatisfaction to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during a recent visit to New Delhi, raising concerns about developments affecting his political standing.

The former Chief Minister continues to command considerable influence among the Kuruba community and the broader AHINDA coalition comprising minorities, backward classes and Dalits.

His supporters are demanding a major AHINDA convention and implementation of the caste census report, potentially creating further difficulties for the government.

On the administrative front, Shivakumar is expected to announce a ₹20,000-crore road infrastructure development package to counter criticism over slowing development activities.

However, the BJP plans to intensify protests against increased household expenses, extending its campaign to Assembly constituencies and local government areas.

With Karnataka remaining a politically crucial state for Congress, unresolved factional disputes and public resentment over rising prices could pose serious challenges to the party's longer-term electoral prospects.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman