Udupi, Thursday – Former three‑time legislator K. Raghupathi Bhat told reporters that he will file nomination papers for the Karnataka Assembly polls scheduled in 2028. While his participation is confirmed, he has not yet decided whether to rejoin the Congress or remain independent.
Bhat explained that he is consulting grassroots supporters and party workers before finalising his affiliation. He added that no special election machinery has been set up at this stage. “When I won three terms, the party machinery stood behind me. Now I am preparing as an independent candidate and will seek the views of my supporters,” he said.
The politician recalled a previous promise to wait until the end of Navaratri before announcing any move, but indicated that the approaching election timetable has prompted an earlier start to his outreach. He also hinted that a direct invitation from the BJP would eliminate the need for such consultations, stating, “If the BJP invites me back, I will return without further delay.”
Bhat expressed frustration with district‑level BJP leaders, accusing them of overlooking his long‑standing service and labeling him as a marginal Brahmin figure. He recounted his tenure on the BJP local committee and his role in recruiting former Congress activists into the party.
The former MLA also leveled criticism against sitting Udupi MLA Yashpal A. Suvarna, alleging personal harassment and interference in the Kaup constituency. Bhat claimed he was forced to protest a single‑layout issue and accused Suvarna of undermining him during the 2004 election cycle. He reminded listeners that after defeating Suvarna, he later nominated him as a councillor, emphasizing his willingness to bridge political divides.
Reflecting on past electoral battles, Bhat highlighted his involvement in the Brahmavar region in 2008, where he helped diminish Congress influence led by Jayaprakash Hegde. He noted that the party relied on his resources to defeat Pramod Madhwaraj in 2018, when Madhwaraj held both the MLA seat and a ministerial portfolio. Bhat concluded by saying that the BJP’s final decision on his status remains pending, even as his resolve to contest in 2028 stays firm.
Image: mangalorean.com
📰 Source: Mangalorean News