Cong, BJP candidates file nomination for by-polls in a show of strength

Mysuru: The Congress and BJP candidates filed their nomination papers for the Nanjangud by-polls by holding a show of strength on March 20.

Kalale Keshavamurthy, the Congress candidate for the Nanjangud constituency, accompanied by hundreds of followers filed his nomination with returning officer G Jagadish. Before filing nomination Keshavamurthy, along with , PWD and District In-charge Minister Dr H C Mahadevappa, Marigowda, MLA M K Somashekhar, offered prayers at the Ganapathi temple in in Hullahalli circle and then held a procession on the main streets of Nanjangud. Thousands of supporters thronged the streets along with the Congress leaders and cheered their leader.

Speaking on the occasion, Kalale Krishnamurthy exuded confidence in winning the by-polls as Congress candidate after successive defeats as JDS candidate in earlier occasions with support from both Congress and JDS workers.

Minister Mahadevappa said the number of people who had come there to extend their support had shown their love for Congress. “I am confident that people, immaterial of community, will support Congress.” Talking about former prime minister H D Devegowda, the minister said that the veteran was a true role model. He also mentioned that JD(S) did not field its candidates just to keep the communal elements at bay.

He expressed confidence that Congress would prevail in the mini battle.

BJP resorts to Road show

Party candidate and former revenue minister Srinivas Prasad accompanied by state BJP President B S Yeddyurappa and thousands of party supporters submitted the nomination papers to the election officer at the taluk office after displaying party strength in a road show.

Former minister V Somanna accompanied Srinivas Prasad while submitting nomination papers.

Speaking on the occasion, Srinivas Prasad said the election will test his self esteem against the arrogance and pride of the chief minister. Prasad took exception to the comments made by the Siddaramiah against UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

State BJP president B S Yeddyurappa accompanied by party MP Shobha Karandhlaje, Mysuru- Kodagu MP Pratap Simha and former minister V Somanna and hundreds of party activists participated in the road show, in what is considered as BJP’s show of strength before party nominee Srinivas Prasad submitted his nomination papers.

Gundlupet

Geetha Mahadevprasad, the Congress candidate from Gundlupet constituency, also filed her nomination. She was accompanied by MP Dhruvanarayan and Chamarajnagar In-charge Minister U T Khader. Tuesday is the last date for filing the nominations while the last day to withdraw the same is on March 24. Polling will be held on April 9 and the counting of votes on April 13.