Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, former Karnataka Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Basavaraj Bommai hinted at possible discussions surrounding JD(S) joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Bommai suggested these negotiations could shape the course of future political developments in the region.
When queried about the likelihood of the JD(S) entering the NDA fold, Bommai deferred to the outcome of talks between the BJP leadership and JD(S) President H D Deve Gowda. He added that JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy has conveyed certain sentiments that will guide ongoing dialogues.
In recent times, there have been signals from both BJP and JD(S) leaders indicating the possibility of a mutual understanding ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. BJP stalwart BS Yediyurappa had expressed the intention for BJP and JD(S) to jointly challenge the Congress government in the state. On the other hand, Kumaraswamy stated that a decision on electoral collaboration for the Lok Sabha elections would be determined based on the circumstances.
In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, BJP demonstrated its political strength in Karnataka, claiming 25 out of 28 state seats, with an independent candidate backed by the party winning one seat. Meanwhile, the Congress and JD(S) each secured one seat.
Regarding the delay in appointing the Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, Bommai assured that it would likely occur after July 18th. The BJP, being the main opposition party, has drawn criticism from various quarters, including the ruling Congress, for this postponement.
Bommai also addressed rumours of senior BJP leader and former Minister V Somanna defecting to Congress, dismissing them as mere speculation.
On the prospect of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi visiting the state for the ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ scheme launch, Bommai offered a critique of the scheme’s implementation, alleging it had been botched due to procedural lack of clarity and consistent delays. The scheme, a government election promise, guarantees a monthly stipend of Rs. 2,000 to female household heads. Bommai implied that the authorities were purposely delaying the rollout to limit its scope and duration, predicting widespread disappointment among women during the August 16 rollout.
