BENGALURU: Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday expressed optimism about the NDA’s chances in the upcoming Channapatna by-elections, stating that he is confident that the NDA candidate and his son Nikhil Kumaraswamy will win at any cost, with the blessings of the goddesses.
Speaking on his decision to field his son, Kumaraswamy said, “In politics, some decisions are taken to strengthen the party. Due to recent political developments, we decided to field Nikhil Kumaraswamy. In Channapatna’s ‘Agni Pariksha’ (toughest exam), Nikhil will win. Nobody can do anything; the voters themselves will decide.”
“I have had tears in my eyes multiple times, but whenever I have cried, it has been for people’s problems. In this election, did I cry? Can everybody shed tears? It all depends on emotions”, Kumaraswamy added.
Addressing the absence of JDS leader GT Devegowda from the campaign trail, Kumaraswamy said, “GT Devegowda is busy with district programs, so he hasn’t been able to come to Channapatna, but wherever he is, he supports Nikhil Kumaraswamy.”
On the ongoing row regarding state welfare schemes, Kumaraswamy criticised Deputy CM DK Shivakumar’s stance on possibly reducing them.
“Three days back, I saw Deputy CM DK Shivakumar’s comment. Not only me, but even Mallikarjun Kharge has reacted. Parmeshwar says these schemes will continue for the next three years, but Shivakumar says one scheme will be taken back and later given a clarification. His actions show he’s trying to take this government on the route to bankruptcy,” he said.
Kumaraswamy urged the government to “focus on the people’s wealth by ensuring the continuation of schemes instead of just looting the people.”
As for attempts to use “muscle power” in Channapatna, Kumaraswamy dismissed any potential impact. “Doesn’t matter what attempts are made; they will all not work out in Channapatna. The people have already decided for Nikhil Kumaraswamy’s victory”, he said. (ANI)