The Aryavarth Express
Agency( Bangalore): The political arena of Bangalore South is set to witness a high-profile contest between former Jayanagar MLA Sowmya Reddy and the BJP’s incumbent, Tejasvi Surya, in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Sowmya Reddy’s candidacy, endorsed by Congress leaders representing the majority of Assembly segments within the constituency, has injected a fresh dynamism into the electoral battle.
In a recent meeting, Sowmya’s father, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, showcased a buoyant outlook for the Congress, particularly emphasizing the potential electoral dividends of the government’s “five guarantees” initiative. Criticizing the BJP’s dismissive stance on these guarantees, Reddy argued that such schemes would pivot the electoral momentum in favor of Congress, noting a significant uptick in support among women voters.
The Congress’ strategic inroads into traditionally BJP-dominated areas, such as Padmanabhanagar and Bommanahalli, were also highlighted by Reddy, underscoring a concerted effort to bridge the electoral gap in these localities.
In conversations with the media, Ramalinga Reddy confirmed his approval of Sowmya’s nomination for the Lok Sabha seat, indicating a unified endorsement from the party leadership, including AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.
Furthermore, Ramalinga Reddy touched upon Sowmya’s ongoing legal challenge regarding the Jayanagar Assembly constituency election results, where she narrowly missed victory by 16 votes. With the Supreme Court mandating a resolution within six months, Reddy expressed optimism about a favorable outcome upon vote recounting.
Amid considerations for his own candidacy in Bangalore South, Ramalinga Reddy candidly addressed his decision to opt out, citing language barriers as a decisive factor. This strategic positioning of Sowmya Reddy against Tejasvi Surya not only sets the stage for a closely watched electoral duel but also signifies the Congress party’s resolve to leverage its policy achievements and grassroots mobilization to challenge the BJP’s stronghold in this key constituency.