Mysuru: “The Bharatiya Janata Party may expel me from the party if I don’t withdraw my nomination submitted as an independent candidate,” said former Udupi MLA Raghupathi Bhat.
Bhat filed his nomination as an independent candidate for the southwest graduate constituency to the Karnataka Legislative Council on Thursday in Mysuru.
Speaking to a news channel after filing the nomination at the Regional Commissioner’s office in Mysuru, he said he might be expelled from the party, like former minister Eshwarappa. But regardless of the outcome, he would remain a BJP worker. If he wins, he stated he would go to the BJP office and extend support to the party. If not, he would remain loyal to the party and work for it in the coming elections as well.
He emphasized that he is fighting this election to win and not with the intention to defeat someone. “My fight is not against anyone,” said Bhat, refusing to mention anyone’s name for missing the party ticket. He pointed out that the party has not considered regional preferences, causing dissatisfaction among party workers. He also declined to mention former CM BS Yediyurappa for missing the ticket, stating that he enjoys a good relationship with the veteran leader.
Prior to the submission of his nomination, Bhat offered prayer at the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hill and later visited the Regional Commissioner’s office with a large gathering of followers.
BJP candidate Dhanjay Sarji also filed his nomination on Thursday.