Vijayendra holds meeting with BJP leaders from Mandya, appeals for unity

Bengaluru: In the wake of recent political developments, the BJP state president, B. Y. Vijayendra, convened a significant meeting in Bengaluru with BJP leaders from the Mandya district. This meeting comes in the aftermath of the Mandya Lok Sabha seat being conceded to the JD(S), leading to discontent among party members. Vijayendra, in a bid to mend fences, urged the leaders “to unite for Prime Minister Modi” once again.

The closed-door discussion saw the participation of key figures such as former minister Narayana Gowda, former MP L R Shivarame Gowda, and Sachidananda, among others. Vijayendra outlined plans to further engage leaders in Mandya and Mysuru on Wednesday, to foster unity within the party ranks.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Vijayendra emphasized the importance of collaboration between alliance partners. “Our collective goal is to secure victory in all 28 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state, reinstating Narendra Modi as Prime Minister,” he remarked.

Vijayendra reassured that he had engaged in constructive dialogue with leaders like Narayana Gowda and that he will work to take the BJP grassroots cadres in Mandya into confidence.

Dispelling speculations about Narayana Gowda’s loyalty to the party, Vijayendra stated, “We recognize Narayana Gowda’s invaluable contributions, particularly his sacrifices for BS Yeddyurappa’s ascendancy to Chief Ministership. I am confident he will remain steadfast in his commitment to the party.”

Vijayendra said that his admiration for Sumalatha Ambareesh, who is the incumbent MP from Mandya. Acknowledging the support Sumaltha holds among the BJP workers, Vijayendra said that he would personally meet her in the next couple of days.

Sumalatha Ambareesh had on several occasions expressed confidence about getting a BJP ticket from Mandya. However, the Lok Sabha segment was offered to BJP’s alliance partner JD(S) by the party high command.

Meanwhile, Narayana Gowda kept mum on his next move. “We had hoped Sumalatha would secure a ticket this time, given her popularity. However, with the constituency given to JD(S), our next steps will be determined following discussions with Sumalatha,” he said.