Samajawadi Party State president S Bangarappa has clarified no talks have been held with either the Congress or the JD(S) on forging a pre-poll alliance. When contacted by Deccan Herald on Friday, Bangarappa, who has been admitted to a hospital following complaints of fever and dehydration, said his party was prepared for an alliance with secular parties to defeat the “communal” BJP. “If Congress or JDS leaders come forward, we are ready for discussions,” he added.

Madhu Bangarappa said doctors have allowed Bangarappa to return home after treatment on Saturday.