Mangalore, 13 October 2026 – Former Udupi MLA Raghupathi Bhat told reporters today that he has not yet chosen between the Congress and the BJP, but confirmed his intention to run in the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections.
Addressing a gathering of journalists in Mangaluru, Bhat said the Congress had formally invited him, while he still awaited a possible overture from the BJP. “I will discuss the options with my supporters before making a decision,” he explained, adding that his long‑standing ties with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and past roles as district president of both the BJP and its Yuva Morcha make a hasty shift unlikely.
Bhat, a three‑time MLA, voiced frustration over what he called “unfair treatment” by the BJP hierarchy. He recounted being denied a party ticket for the upcoming Assembly poll, a promise of a Legislative Council seat that never materialised, and alleged personal harassment from sitting legislators. “Basic courtesy was missing, and that has taken a toll on my mental health,” he said.
Despite the setbacks, Bhat insisted he will contest the 2028 election to gauge voter sentiment. “If the people ask me not to run, I will step back, but I will continue to serve the community in any capacity,” he affirmed.
In a separate statement, Bhat, who also heads the Dakshina Kannada‑Udupi District Taxi Men’s Association, accused Mangaluru International Airport of hiking charges on taxi operators. He noted that the free entry window had shrunk from ten minutes to eight, while the fee rose from Rs 90 to Rs 180, with an extra Rs 50 levied for each vehicle entering the premises.
The association has asked the Adani Group, which manages the airport, to restore the eight‑minute free period and lower the subsequent charge to Rs 100. Bhat gave the company ten days to comply, warning that a series of sit‑in protests at Kenjar would follow if the demands remain unmet. He also claimed that elected representatives, including local MPs and MLAs, have received no response from airport officials.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalore Today