As the Channapatna Legislative Assembly seat prepares for a crucial by-election, the BJP-JD(S) alliance is closely monitoring the developments following Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s increased interest in the constituency. Initially considering contesting himself, Shivakumar’s recent maneuvers have prompted speculation that a surprise candidate from the KPCC president’s family might enter the fray.
With high stakes for both BJP and JD(S), particularly after JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy’s resignation, alliance leaders are awaiting clarity on Shivakumar’s intentions before finalizing their candidate selection strategy. BJP leader C.P. Yogeshwar’s recent meeting with Kumaraswamy in Delhi has further fueled speculation, with Yogeshwar indicating openness to contesting on the JD(S) ticket if required, highlighting the intricate political dynamics at play ahead of the bypoll.