Karwar: Hectic political activity is underway in Uttara Kannada to obtain the tickets for the Assembly elections 2018.

Of the eight Assembly segment in the Uttara Kannada Lok Sabha constituency, the Congress won in three, BJP in one while Independent gained two segments.

Will RV Deshpande contest elections?

There can be no denying that RV Deshpande, District Incharge minister of Uttara Kannada and the senior most political leader is seen as one of the most influential politician in the present government and there can be no issue for him to gain a ticket. But rumours are floating around that he is trying to promote his son for the upcoming elections. However, Mr. Deshpande's son, Prashanth Deshpande lost elections against BJP strongman Ananth Kumar Hegde in the Lok sabha elections back in 2013. But this has not deterred Deshpande for lobbying his son into politics this time from Haliyal Assembly. Although there is not a word from Deshpande about this and it is still yet to be confirmed whether he will contest the elections or not.

Political observers believe that Deshpande might decide, assessing the political situation near 2018. It is also speculated that there are chances that he might contest close to the elections. 

Kageri or Anant Kumar for Sirsi?

Talking about Sirsi, BJP MLA Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri is battling the inner turmoil within BJP. As per the internal sources of BJP, MP Anant Kumar Hegde has expressed his desire to contest as a candidate from Sirsi, mix in his growing closeness with Yedyurappa camp, he has cemented his position in the Yedyurappa-supporting district. 

If sources are to believed, Congress MLA Shivram Hebbar of Yellapur is going to be dropped down from the list of candidate and another leader from Haliyal is soon to be roped in for the polls by Mr. Deshpande. But it is said that Hebbar is leaving no stone unturned to promote himself as an eligible candidate. 

What about Mankal?

It is reported that senior congress leaders have plans to eliminate Mankal Vaidya, MLA of Bhatkal constituency. While there has been talk of a new name as desired candidate in months to come, there is no clarity in the issue. Seeing the works accomplished in his tenure, everyone are rooting for him to contest for the second time but amidst the political conspiracies behind his back, whether Mankal gets his election ticket or not, only time can tell.

As per the sources,  Karwar MLA Satish Sail will be contesting for other party rather than Congress. Previously, rumour mills were abuzz about him joining BJP. Nonetheless,  the MLA has started his early preparations for the 2018 elections.

Needless to say, the MLAs of Uttar Kannada are spending sleepless nights and have been making efforts to popularise themselves with an eye on the Lok Sabha seat.