The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): In a recent turn of events, Jagadish Shettar, a seasoned politician, has rejoined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) following a short-lived association with the Congress. As he gears up for the Lok Sabha elections, he is eyeing a seat from the Belagavi district with high hopes and a sense of belonging. During a conversation with ANI, Shettar, who has previously served as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, expressed his deep connection with the people and party workers of Belagavi. He is determined to justify the trust placed in him by securing a position as a Member of Parliament (MP) from this region.
Shettar’s return to the BJP comes at a critical moment, with the party announcing its fifth list of 111 candidates for the upcoming elections, positioning him as the candidate from Belagavi. This decision follows Shettar’s departure from the BJP to the Congress due to a ticket denial for last year’s assembly elections. However, his homecoming in January reflects a reconciliation with the party and a renewed commitment to serve the people of Belagavi.
Addressing the often-discussed tensions between Marathas and Kannadigas in the area, Shettar dismissed any notion of discord, emphasizing the fraternal bond that exists between the two communities within Karnataka. He underscored their unified identity as Indians, reflecting his vision for communal harmony and collective progress.
Shettar’s political journey has been marked by significant achievements, including his tenure as a six-time MLA from the Hubli-Dharwad Central constituency. His decision to not seek re-election as an MLA, prompted by the party’s advice, had previously stirred discontent among his supporters. Yet, his latest electoral venture signifies a fresh chapter, both for him and for the BJP in Karnataka.
As the state prepares for the Lok Sabha elections, set to be held in two phases on April 26 and May 7, the BJP aims to replicate its dominant performance from 2019, where it secured 25 of the 28 seats, leaving the Congress and JDS with just one seat each. The national elections, scheduled to unfold in seven phases starting April 19, will culminate in the vote counting on June 4, marking a pivotal moment for candidates like Shettar and the parties they represent.