Mysuru: An internal rift within the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD(S)) in Mysuru has intensified, with senior leaders publicly trading claims and counterclaims over the party’s future in the Chamundeshwari constituency.
The disagreement centres around the candidature for the 2028 Assembly elections, with conflicting statements from key party figures exposing growing divisions within the district unit.
Devegowda asserts claim over ticket
Senior leader and former minister G T Devegowda, who is currently the MLA from Chamundeshwari constituency, has reaffirmed his intention to seek the party ticket again in the 2028 elections.
Speaking in Jayapura, Devegowda stated that his future political move would be guided by the wishes of party workers in the constituency. “I will take my next step as directed by the party workers,” he said.
He also referred to a recent meeting in New Delhi with around 25 party members and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda, claiming that the senior leader had appreciated his work and described him as a strong voice within the party.
According to Devegowda, the former prime minister had indicated that his presence as Leader of the Opposition could have strengthened the party’s voice in the Assembly.
Claims of strong grassroots support
Reasserting his influence in the region, Devegowda said he had built the party’s base in his constituency over the years and had maintained an undefeated record.
“In my area, the party won seven zilla panchayat seats, while in KR Nagar it secured only two,” he said, in an apparent reference to internal comparisons within the party.
He further stated that he has consistently worked for the development of the constituency, regardless of which party was in power. He also pointed out that despite facing opposition from leaders he had previously supported, he managed to secure victory in the last election.
Devegowda also dismissed speculation regarding his son, MLA G D Harish, shifting constituencies, clarifying that he would continue to contest from Hunsur in the next Assembly elections.
Counterattack from party leadership
Responding sharply, JD(S) working president and former MLA S R Mahesh rejected Devegowda’s claims and asserted that the party leadership had already taken a decision regarding the Chamundeshwari seat.
He stated that Union minister H D Kumaraswamy has decided to field a new candidate from the constituency. “Devegowda is no longer with us. Kumaraswamy has made this clear, and the matter is closed,” Mahesh said.
At the same time, he added that he would abide by any future decisions taken by the party high command.
Questions over loyalty
Mahesh further questioned Devegowda’s loyalty to the party, alleging that the MLA had acted against its interests during cooperative elections.
He stated that the leadership had taken its decision after closely observing Devegowda’s commitment, integrity, and alignment with party objectives.
According to Mahesh, the party is currently in the process of identifying a loyal leader who has stood firmly with the organisation during both favourable and challenging times.
“Kumaraswamy’s decision is final,” he emphasised.
Political implications ahead of 2028 polls
The public exchange between senior leaders has highlighted internal divisions within the JD(S) in Mysuru, particularly in the politically significant Chamundeshwari constituency.
Political observers note that such disagreements, if unresolved, could impact the party’s prospects in the upcoming Assembly elections. The constituency has historically been a key battleground, making candidate selection a crucial factor.
The developments also indicate a broader struggle within the party between established leaders and emerging leadership aligned with the central command.
Conclusion
The escalating rift within the JD(S) in Mysuru underscores growing tensions over leadership and electoral strategy ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections. With both sides holding firm to their positions, the final decision of the party high command will be crucial in determining the future course in Chamundeshwari.
As the situation unfolds, the focus will remain on whether the party can resolve internal differences and present a united front in the politically significant region.