For Karnataka Elections, BJP Won't Go With Gujarat Formula

Sources said the BJP will field most of its existing MLAs in the Karnataka assembly polls, in view of the fact that most leaders have their own vote bank

The BJP is making a break from its usual election model for Karnataka, giving recognition to a different polity and manner of voting. Sources indicated that the departure from norm -- currently at play in the Hindi heartland and in Gujarat -- is expected to work in the southern state, where the party is hoping for a second consecutive term. Assembly elections are due in the state in May.

Sources said the party will field most of its existing MLAs, in view of the fact that most leaders have their own vote bank and support groups, no matter to which party they belong to.

Elsewhere, the BJP has always sheared down its existing MLAs, leading with new faces and later, a new team of ministers to avoid any anti-incumbency. Accordingly, there have been demands that the same model be followed in Karnataka. Relatives of MLAs also should not be given tickets, many leaders have demanded.

But the party's think tank has pointed out that the political situation in Karnataka is different from that of Gujarat. There are more than 120 seats where leaders win elections with their personal influence. In case they are denied tickets, they will have no scruples about changing parties, sources said.