BJP-JD(S) alliance firm and will continue into all elections, says Deve Gowda

Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda on Friday affirmed that the Bharatiya Janata Party-Janata Dal (Secular) alliance will continue “without disruption” and extend to all forthcoming elections, including local bodies and the Assembly.

Addressing presspersons here on Friday, Mr. Gowda sought to dispel speculation about the continuation of the alliance. “Our partnership with the BJP is intact. There should be no doubts. It will continue in all the upcoming elections as well. My relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi has never changed and will not change. Over the past 10 years, I have not spoken lightly about him on any occasion,” he asserted.

Focus on party organisation

Turning to the JD(S)’s own strategy, the veteran leader stressed the importance of strengthening the organisation at the grassroots.

“I am personally devoting time to party-building. Former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy had some health issues. But he has recovered completely now and will once again work actively for the party. His son, Nikhil Kumaraswamy, has been leading an energetic membership campaign across the State. Despite losing three elections, he has not remained idle. He has learnt lessons from defeat and is now working like a seasoned politician,” Mr Gowda said.

Convention on October 12

Asserting that the party was focusing on consolidating its presence in Bengaluru, Mr. Gowda said the JD(S) would hold a women’s convention in the city on October 12, where 60,000 party workers were expected to gather.

“We will build the organisation from the grassroots. When elections come, our real strength will be visible,” Mr. Gowda remarked, adding that the party had set itself a target of winning at least 50 to 60 seats in the forthcoming Bengaluru civic body elections.

Bidadi township controversy

Responding to questions on the proposed Bidadi Township project, Mr. Gowda said he was fully aware of the details and the opposition from farmers to land acquisition.

“This project is under the Congress government. Farmers are opposing acquisition. Ultimately, people will give their verdict during elections. Until then, we must wait. There is no need to bring in names or individuals. Time will decide everything,” he said.