Congress party, which is on a high after victory in Karnataka, recognised senior Lingayat leader and former CM Jagadish Shettar’s contribution for its victory in Assembly polls. Congress has respected Shettar by fielding him as Congress candidate in MLC bye elections.
Jagadish Shettar, a senior and influential leader from Hubli-Dharwad, shifted to Congress, after BJP denied him ticket. His shifting of loyalties from BJP to Congress was one of the key points in Assembly elections of Karnataka.
However Jagadish Shettar lost in Assembly elections, surprising everyone. Inspite of his defeat, Congress leadership recognised his efforts for Congress victory in Karnataka and chose him as MLC bye elections candidate.