The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Karnataka): In a strategic political development, B S Yediyurappa, the former Chief Minister of Karnataka and an influential member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Parliamentary Board, declared on Friday that Jagadish Shettar, another former Chief Minister of Karnataka, will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha election from the Belagavi constituency. This announcement precedes the official nomination by the BJP, signaling a confident move by the party in a key battleground.
Yediyurappa recounted his conversation with Shettar, noting that initially, Shettar had reservations about contesting from the Belagavi (formerly Belgaum) constituency. However, after discussions, Shettar was persuaded and has now expressed his willingness to represent the BJP in this crucial electoral fight. Yediyurappa’s endorsement reflects the strategic considerations and internal dynamics within the BJP as they prepare for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The declaration by Yediyurappa underscores his optimism about the BJP’s prospects in Karnataka, particularly in Belagavi, a constituency that has been the focus of keen political interest. He emphatically stated that the BJP is poised to clinch a decisive victory in Belagavi by a significant margin, buoyed by what he perceives as a statewide pro-BJP sentiment. Yediyurappa’s confidence extends beyond Belagavi, envisioning a sweep of all 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka, attributing this potential success to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Belagavi seat, with its recent history and political significance, adds layers of intrigue to this announcement. Currently, the constituency is represented by Mangala Angadi, who secured her position through a closely contested by-election in 2021, following the demise of her husband, Suresh Angadi, a former Union Minister of State. Her victory against Congress heavyweight Satish Jarkiholi by a narrow margin highlighted the competitive nature of the constituency.
Jagadish Shettar’s candidacy is notable not only for his political stature as a former Chief Minister but also for his familial connections to the Angadi family, adding a personal dimension to his political campaign. Shettar’s recent political journey — a brief departure from the BJP, followed by a return — illustrates the fluid dynamics within Karnataka’s political landscape as the Lok Sabha elections approach.
As the BJP finalizes its candidates and strategies for the 2024 elections, the focus on Karnataka and constituencies like Belagavi reflects the broader electoral challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With veteran leaders like Yediyurappa taking active roles in campaign strategies, the party aims to solidify its presence and extend its influence in the southern state.
