Bengaluru: Janata Dal (Secular) state chief and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy revealed on Tuesday that BJP National President JP Nadda and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi have requested him to allot the JD(S) ticket to BJP leader CP Yogeshwar for the upcoming Channapatna by-polls. Meanwhile, Congress leaders have signaled their willingness to welcome Yogeshwar into their fold.
Kumaraswamy, who had defeated Yogeshwar in the 2023 assembly elections, commented on the confusion surrounding Yogeshwar’s political future. Yogeshwar recently resigned as BJP MLC and has hinted at running as an independent candidate from Channapatna.
After meeting with JD(S) leaders and workers from Channapatna, Kumaraswamy told reporters, “There is some confusion among local BJP leaders, and three days remain to finalize decisions. I will make a decision based on developments.”
The JD(S) chief confirmed that JP Nadda had approached him with a proposal to issue the JD(S) B form to Yogeshwar, adding, “We had agreed to respect his request and discussed it at the party level.”
Kumaraswamy further stated, “Yogeshwar’s stance keeps changing. Initially, he said he would contest from any party, and now he claims he might run independently or with BJP’s backing. At the same time, Congress leaders are eager to welcome him. What should I do in this situation?”
Yogeshwar, the former tourism minister under the BS Yediyurappa government, said on Monday, “I haven’t decided on switching parties, but I am considering running as an independent. Rumors will circulate during by-elections, but I am yet to make a final decision.”
He also appealed to Kumaraswamy through the media to give him an opportunity to contest. “I have served the party for many years, and I request Kumaraswamy to give me a chance,” Yogeshwar said.
The Channapatna by-polls will take place on November 13, following Kumaraswamy’s election to the Lok Sabha from Mandya, leaving the Channapatna assembly seat vacant.
