Congress to contest 18, JD(S) five seats

Bengaluru: The Congress and JD(S), which have come to an understanding for elections to the Upper House from the local bodies constituencies, have decided to field their candidates in 18 and five seats respectively. However, in two constituencies, they would be fighting each other.

Ms Bhavani Revanna, daughter-in-law of former prime minister H.D. Deve Gowda, who was waiting in the wings to enter politics is likely to make it this time by contesting from Hassan constituency to the Upper House on a JD(S) ticket.

Sources said that the seat sharing between Congress and JD(S) is complete. While Congress will be contesting 18 seats,  JD(S) will be contesting five seats. Two constituencies - Bengaluru Rural and Kolar- which have become contentious for both parties for various reasons, would not come under the pact.

While Bengaluru Rural is represented by JD(S)’  E. Krishnappa, Kolar is represented by Congress member Nazeer Ahamed. In both constituencies, the parties would field their respective candidates.

Bengaluru Rural has been a prestige issue for Power Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Deve Gowda family. Since the families do not see eye to eye, they do not want to let go the seat. In Kolar, the scenario is different compared to the last election. The JD(S) has increased its seats both in the Assembly and Panchayats, so JD(S) members want to field their candidates, sources pointed out. The Congress has agreed to spare Hassan, Mandya, Tumakuru and one of the constituencies in Mysuru, which is now represented by JD(S) member Mr Sandesh Nagaraj. Along with that, the JD(S) has also sought Bidar seat, which is now with BJP, to which the Congress is likely to agree, sources said.

Meanwhile, JD(S) sources said that Ms Bhavani Revanna, whose political ambitions were never a secret is all set to enter the Upper House during this election. The party has decided not to continue with Mr Patel Shivaram, who represents Hassan constituency. Mr Gowda, who is not contesting the next Parliament election has handed over the constituency to Mr Prajwal Revanna.

 

 

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