Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Jan 22: “I will contest the next MLA election,” said former MLA Raghupati Bhat while addressing the media at a press conference held on January 22.

Looking ahead to the next MLA election, Bhat expressed his firm decision to contest, stating, “I have decided to contest once more for the assembly. Whether I do so from BJP or as an independent candidate remains to be seen.”

Bhat clarified his stance regarding his political future, stating that he is open to re-joining the BJP if the party extends an invitation. “It seems that BJP does not require my services, as they have not invited me. I have not had any discussions regarding joining the Congress or any other party. No Congress leaders have approached me, nor have I contacted anyone. I have registered for BJP’s primary membership, but it is unclear whether the local or city committees will approve my membership,” he said.

Raghupati Bhat expressed his disappointment with the current leadership in his former constituency, accusing them of sidelining him despite his contribution to the party. “I am deeply disappointed that the leader I helped bring up has turned against me. For instance, Gurme Suresh Shetty has always shown respect to the previous MLA of his constituency, but I have been ignored by the present MLA of the constituency I represented,” he remarked.

Bhat emphasized his connection with the people of Udupi, stating, “The people of Udupi have never defeated me in elections. I have won three times from the Udupi Assembly constituency. There are still three-and-a-half years before the elections, leaving sufficient time to decide the course of action and the party from which I will contest.”