Former MLA K. Raghupathi Bhat vows to stay active in politics despite election defeat

Former MLA K. Raghupathi Bhat, who contested as an independent candidate in the recent Legislative Council elections for the South West Graduates’ constituency, has pledged to remain active in politics and social work despite his unexpected defeat.

Speaking at a press conference today, Bhat stated, “I don’t have the habit of repeatedly contesting as an independent candidate. I did not expect such a significant loss. I will continue to engage with society as a political and social activist.”

Bhat clarified that he had contested the election in protest against the party’s wrong decision but remains committed to his political career. “All the booth workers were with us. I will continue to be active in politics as a BJP worker,” he affirmed.

In the election, K. Raghupathi Bhat secured 7,039 votes. The BJP candidate, Dr. Dhananjay Sargi, won with 37,627 votes, while the Congress candidate, Aynur Manjunath, received 13,516 votes.