Sumalatha’s Mandya Gambit Sparks Debate

In Bengaluru, JD(S) disclosed its contenders for Kolar, Hassan, and Mandya as part of its coalition with the BJP. In response, Sumalatha, the BJP’s parliamentarian from Mandya, expressed her intent to make a final decision regarding her candidacy in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections after deliberating with her adherents today.

“I stand in support of the BJP, yet the sentiments of my supporters hold paramount importance,” she remarked.

BY Vijayendra, the BJP’s state leader, convened with Sumalatha for an extensive discussion to solicit her collaboration. Following this, Sumalatha remarked, “I shall convene with my supporters on Saturday and thereafter make a conclusive determination after conferring with them. While backing the BJP is one aspect, the stance of my supporters takes precedence. I shall unveil my definitive verdict in Mandya shortly.”

“In the event that the BJP had retained this constituency, we could have presented a formidable challenge. However, such discourse is futile now. I have received numerous propositions from alternative factions and have consistently iterated that my candidacy shall solely be pursued in Mandya. My affiliation and essence are deeply rooted in Mandya. I am disinclined to solicit candidacy from any quarter. I shall align myself in accordance with the resolution of my adherents,” she expounded.

Conversely, Vijayendra relayed to journalists, “Persuading Sumalatha is not the crux of the matter. As the incumbent Mandya MP, it is incumbent upon me, in my capacity as the state president, to engage in dialogue with her. Presently, there have been substantial alterations in the political landscape. I have conferred with Sumalatha, and she has reciprocated positively. She remains within our fold. While she may encounter a transient setback, it shall ultimately redound to her advantage. I am sanguine that she shall arrive at a judicious decision. She is cognizant of the national-level deliberations, and she will assuredly labor towards fortifying PM Modi,” he affirmed.