Kumaraswamy Accuses Congress of Division Tactics in Channapatna

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy alleged that individuals were trying to create a rift between JD(S) and BJP to favor Congress in Channapatna. He emphasized JD(S)'s focus on the region and dismissed rumors about CP Yogeshwar’s candidacy, asserting JD(S)'s strength in upcoming by-polls.

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has accused certain individuals of conspiring to fracture the alliance between JD(S) and BJP in Channapatna, with an aim to benefit the Congress candidate. Despite these efforts, he remains confident that their plans will not succeed. The JD(S) is actively working in constituencies such as Channapatna, Shiggaon, and Sandur, and he believes Congress' tactics will eventually fail.

Addressing the media after his visit to a paddy field in Sitapura village, Mandya district, Kumaraswamy responded to questions about rumors linking CP Yogeshwar to the Channapatna candidature. He clarified that the JD(S) has already nominated a family member as the BJP candidate for the Bengaluru Rural Lok Sabha seat. Kumaraswamy expressed hope that BJP would reciprocate their goodwill. He emphasized that no formal discussions have taken place regarding Yogeshwar's rumored candidacy, dismissing the reports as media speculation.

Reacting to queries about Congress leaders meeting Yogeshwar, Kumaraswamy stated, "For the past fortnight, speculation has been rife about him running as an independent candidate. Congress is keen to bring him into their fold to create divisions within the NDA alliance." He accused Congress of attempting to sow discord as they cannot secure victory independently in Channapatna. Ensuring patience, Kumaraswamy stated that a decision will be made shortly with internal discussions set to occur.

Kumaraswamy also stressed that there are no issues at the Delhi level concerning the Channapatna ticket as he has represented the constituency for two terms. The JD(S) is strategically handling matters related to Channapatna at the national level, and Kumaraswamy reiterated their strong presence there. Highlighting the party's sacrifice of the Bengaluru Rural seat to BJP in favor of a family member candidate, he now anticipates a similar gesture from BJP.

Among those present with Kumaraswamy were former minister CS Puttaraju, MLA Manjunath, JD(S) district president Ramesh, and other party leaders. The Channapatna by-polls, triggered by Kumaraswamy's election to the Lok Sabha, are scheduled for November 13.

(With inputs from agencies.)