He was speaking at the celebrations for the inauguration of the new BJP town BJP office, as well as the induction of several new leaders from different parties, into the BJP, organised at the Lakshmivenkateshwara Kalyana Mantapa here.

The JD(S), which became wary after Yeddyurappa presented a much-praised budget, feared that if power was transferred to the BJP, then the party’s popularity would eclipse that of both the JD(S) and the Congress. The Congress feared that if the BJP came to power, then the BJP’s door te the South would be open. To avoid this, the Congress resorted to unfair means.

The former legislator, who welcomed the new party members, said that he would discuss with the State president and select a deserving candidate to represent Shira in the polls.

Speaking on the occasion, member of parliament S Mallikarjuniah said that there is no doubt about the BJP being strengthened in Shira, thanks to the many leading politicians who have joined the party. He urged the public to support the party.

TP member B K Manjunath said, “If the JD(S) is a one-family party, the BJP is a one-man leadership party. The JD(S) put obstacles in the way of MY becoming TP president as well as  ZP member. From the time the Janata Parivar was formed, I have been a party worker, but sick of the recent developments, I have joined the BJP.”

Hundreds of political leaders from other parties in Gowdagere, Tavarekere, Changavara, Bevinahalli and other parts of the district joined the BJP.

Taluk BJP president Baragur Thippeswamy presided over the programme. District BJP Secretary Shivaprasad, M B Nandeesh, Giri, Pandurangappa, Malimariyappa, Bukkapattana Manjunath, Lakshminarayan and others were also present.