BJP–JD(S) alliance will continue in all elections: Deve Gowda
Bengaluru: Former Prime Minister and JD(S) supremo H.D. Deve Gowda has assured that the alliance between the BJP and JD(S) will remain intact and continue across all levels of elections in Karnataka.
Speaking to reporters at the JD(S) office, J.P. Bhavan, on Friday, Deve Gowda said that the understanding between the two parties would apply to elections in the Greater Bengaluru municipal corporations, Zilla Panchayats, Taluk Panchayats, as well as the upcoming Assembly polls.
He dismissed speculation about any strain in ties with the BJP. “There is no change in our relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He has never spoken lightly about me. The ties between the two parties are strong,” Gowda said.
On farmers’ protests against the Bidadi township project, the JD(S) chief chose not to comment. “We are a small political party. Our effort is to preserve and strengthen it. The people will give their verdict during elections, until then we must wait,” he remarked.
Criticising the Congress government, Gowda said that its guarantee schemes had worsened the State’s financial situation. “Even their own legislators admit this. At such a time, the government has the responsibility to go beyond its limits to help the people,” he said.
The veteran leader also underlined his commitment to strengthening the JD(S) organisation. “As before, H.D. Kumaraswamy will work actively, his health is improving. Nikhil Kumaraswamy is also engaged in party work. Despite losing three elections, he has been tirelessly working across 60–65 constituencies,” Gowda noted appreciatively.
JD(S) leaders T.N. Javarayigowda, former minister Leeladevi R. Prasad, former MLA H. Ningappa, Bengaluru city unit president H.M. Ramesh Gowda, and others were present at the press meet.
Meanwhile, Deve Gowda announced that the JD(S) will hold a massive women’s convention in Bengaluru on October 12. “We expect 50,000 to 60,000 women to participate. If possible, it will be organised at the Palace Grounds,” he said.
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Deve Gowda hints at NDA tie-up for local body, Panchayat polls
Bengaluru: JD(S) supremo and former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda has indicated that the party is open to an understanding with the NDA in the upcoming local body, taluk and zilla panchayat elections.
Speaking to reporters at J.P. Bhavan on Wednesday, he said the JD(S) is a regional party, while the BJP is a national party. “We have to wait and see what decision they take regarding a pre-poll alliance. As far as local body elections are concerned, we will discuss the matter together before taking a decision,” he said.
Responding to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s allegation that the JD(S) does not give positions to anyone outside the family, Deve Gowda said the charge has no substance. “My memory is still strong. I will respond to everything at the appropriate time,” he remarked.
He also said that a JD(S) convention will be held in Vijayapura on February 27 and that he has been invited to participate in the event.
