Bangalore: BJP Decides to Field Sriramulu for Bypoll, CM Holds Discussions

Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Nov 4: It is learnt that BJP has decided to field former minister, B Sriramulu, as party candidate for the bypoll being held on November 30 for Bellary rural assembly constituency. The seat was vacated by Sriramulu, in protest against not giving ministerial berths to him and Reddy brothers, and also because his name was linked with the mining scam.

This decision was taken at a meeting held in the party’s office on Thursday under the presidentship of K S Eshwarappa. The party’s decision has been conveyed to Sriramulu, who has sought two days’ time to consider the issue. A religious head also has put pressure on Sriramulu to contest the election as a BJP candidate. It is learnt that Yeddyurappa has also sent the signal that Sriramulu should be fielded as party candidate.

Excise minister, Renukacharya, exuded confidence of convincing Sriramulu to contest the bypoll on BJP ticket.

There are rumours that Sriramulu had opted to field a family member in his place, but the BJP is pressurizing him to accept the party’s proposal. On Thursday, state Chief Minister (CM), D V Sadananda Gowda, held talks with Sriramulu for some time during a function held at Ujjaini near Bellary on account of the enthronement of the new spiritual head of Ujjaini Peetha there. Sriramulu’s sister and MP, J Shanta, and Koodligi MLA, Nagendra, also exchanged pleasantries with the CM on this occasion.

When approached by the media, Sriramulu did not reveal the details of the discussions. He said he will reveal his next move in a couple of days.