Is it Krishna vs Gowda in Bangalore North?

Speculations are running rampant that the BJP is likely to field former Karnataka Chief Minister S M Krishna to prevent the possible candidature of JD(S) supremo H D Deve Gowda in the Bangalore North constituency in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

A former Union Minister in the UPA Government, Krishna joined the BJP two years ago after he accused the Congress of neglecting him completely.

The BJP is planning to replace D V Sadananda Gowda, its incumbent MP, to make way for S M Krishna, who is credited with transforming Bengaluru into an IT hub, according to a report in 'The Hindu'.

There's a view that the JD(S) is attempting to strengthen its electoral base in Bengaluru by fielding former prime minister Deve Gowda. Moreover, the party wants to consolidate the

Vokkaliga vote bank in the city to wrest all three seats from the BJP. The candidature of S M Krishna, who is also from the Vokkaliga community, is likely to split the JD(S) vote bank.

The BJP believes that Deve Gowda may back out of the contest to avoid a face-off with Krishna, said the report.

Recent statements from Krishna also indicate an interest in playing a key role in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.