The BJP’s “Mission 150” was deflated in the Nanjangud and Gundlupet by-elections last year which the Congress won and the latter is now on its way to win 130-plus seats in the ensuing Assembly elections, according to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
He told reporters before leaving for campaigning in Varuna constituency on Monday that apparently it seems to be a triangular fight. But in reality it would be a direct fight between the Congress and the BJP in north Karnataka and Congress and the JD(S) in 9 districts of south Karnataka. “But we will prevail and win at least 130 seats.”
Mr. Siddaramaiah, who is set to file his nomination from Badami on Tuesday, said he will embark on a State-wide tour from April 26 and restrict himself only for one day in Badami. “There are senior party leaders who have worked hard in Badami constituency and hence one day is sufficient,” he added, expressing confidence of his victory. “I do not bother about my opponents or worry about their stature. Let anybody contest because it is the voters who give a mandate.”
On the question of cine star Ambareesh being inaccessible and “'playing truant,” the Chief Minister said he has not spoken to him yet. “The party decided in his favour but he is yet to convey his decision. He was supposed to meet me last night but did not turn up. I have asked the party president (G. Parameshwara) to speak to him.
Rahul’s tour
Meanwhile, Congress president Rahul Gandhi is slated to tour parts of the State on April 26 and 27. He will tour Uttara Kannada district on April 26 and Dakshina Kannada, Kodagu and Mysuru districts the next day, as per a communiqué from the Congress office.
