Congress Sees Triangular Contest for KMF Chief Post as DK Suresh, Bhima Nayak, and Malur Nanjegowda Emerge Front-Runners

This growing internal rivalry has sparked a full-blown political tussle, with each aspirant mobilising support from their respective regional milk unions. Suresh is said to have backing from the Bengaluru Rural Milk Union, while Bhima Nayak has the Ballari belt in his corner. Nanjegowda, on the other hand, is pushing for a promised opportunity, reportedly assured during the previous term when Bhima Nayak was chosen with the understanding that Nanjegowda would be his successor.

Bhima Nayak, speaking to the media, stated, “I’ve been assured by both the CM and DyCM that I’ll be given an opportunity again. There’s no need for me to lobby further.” However, he also made a subtle counter to DK Suresh’s candidacy, pointing out that delegate nominations must follow party decisions.

Interestingly, DK Suresh’s active push for the KMF chairmanship has intensified the intra-party dynamic. Congress insiders admit that the contest has taken a serious political turn, with high command intervention likely to be the deciding factor. Cooperative sector posts like the KMF chairman’s are often viewed as powerful stepping stones akin to cabinet positions, adding weight to this battle.

With the term of the previous chairman Bhima Nayak having ended, and elections delayed due to pending milk union polls across districts, the KMF is currently under an administrator. But with elections now imminent, the stakes are high.