Janata Dal (Secular) MLAs K.M. Shivalinge Gowda of Arsikere and A.T. Ramaswamy of Arkalgud were absent at the JD(S) Janata Jaladhare rally in Hassan on Thursday.
Their absence triggered speculations that they might quit the party. What added credence to speculations, particularly with regard to Mr. .Shivalinge Gowda, were the comments made by former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and former Chief Minister H.D.Kumaraswamy.
Mr. Kumaraswamy, in his address, hit out at Mr. Shivalinge Gowda by recalling how he as Chief Minister responded to the issues raised by the MLA.
