Hubballi (Karnataka): Senior BJP leader Basavaraj Bommai hinted at talks regarding the JD(S) joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The former Chief Minister said the results of the discussion will determine the future political developments.
"That is for the discussion between our leadership and JD(S) President HD Deve Gowda," Bommai said in response to a question on the possibility of JD(S) joining NDA. Speaking to reporters, he said JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy has expressed certain feelings and the discussions will continue in that direction.
"The future political developments will be based on the result of those discussions," he added.
Recently, there have been enough indications from leaders of BJP and JD(S) about both parties coming to an understanding ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. BJP veteran BS Yediyurappa had said his party and the JD(S) would fight the Congress government in the state together.
Kumaraswamy on his part had said a decision on an electoral understanding for the Lok Sabha polls will be taken when the situation arises. The BJP swept the 2019 Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka by winning 25 of the total 28 seats in the state, while an independent backed by it won in one seat. The Congress and JD(S) secured one seat each.
Responding to a question on the appointment of Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka assembly, Bommai said, "Yes, the appointment has not happened... most probably it may happen after July 18."
Even two weeks after the legislature session began, the BJP, which is the principal opposition party in the state, is yet to appoint the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly. The party is facing criticism from various sections for the delay, including the ruling Congress in the state.