The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Bangalore): In an intriguing political development, renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. C N Manjunath, son-in-law of JD(S) patriarch H D Deve Gowda, has decided to enter the political fray, setting the stage for a significant contest in the Bangalore Rural constituency. After considerable persuasion from senior JD(S) figures, Dr. Manjunath has agreed to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, marking his debut in the political landscape.
Dr. Manjunath, lauded for his transformative leadership at the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences over 17 years, is poised to challenge the incumbent Congress MP D K Suresh, who is also the brother of Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar. The decision on which party’s ticket—BJP or JD(S)—Dr. Manjunath will contest is anticipated to be made in a forthcoming meeting with BJP’s national leadership.
This decision was solidified during a meeting at the residence of JD(S) state president and former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, with significant participation from JD(S) leaders of Ramanagara and Bangalore Rural districts. Despite H D Deve Gowda’s initial reservations about Dr. Manjunath’s political involvement, Kumaraswamy disclosed that he dedicated two hours on Sunday to convincing his father of the necessity to field Manjunath, amidst concerns expressed by Manjunath’s wife and Kumaraswamy’s sister about the political engagement.
Kumaraswamy’s push for Manjunath’s candidacy reflects a strategic move, acknowledging both the alliance dynamics with the BJP and Manjunath’s distinguished contributions to healthcare. Kumaraswamy’s commendation of Dr. Manjunath underscores his potential to serve the nation beyond his medical achievements, countering any light remarks from Congress leaders about his candidacy.
As JD(S) gears up for discussions in Delhi to finalize candidates and seat-sharing arrangements with the BJP, the entry of Dr. Manjunath into the political scene introduces a compelling narrative to the Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka, highlighting the intersection of professional acclaim and political aspirations in the quest for public service.