Kumaraswamy invites BJP leader to join JD(S)

Decision after consulting supporters, says Naveen Ram

Former chief minister and JD (S) State president H D Kumaraswamy met and invited BJP leader Naveen Ram and former president of Karnataka Development Authority Munirathnamnaidu to join JD(S).

Kumaraswamy, who was in the city to inaugurate various development programmes in Kolar Gold Fields, visited Munirathnamnaidu at his residence in Kangandlahalli. He later visited BJP leader Naveen Ram.

Trying to convince the BJP leader, Kumaraswamy said that Naveen might not have got the deserving post as KGF is the reserved constituency. He promised to give him a position in the State-level ministry or at least a ticket in the Bangalore Legislative Assembly constituency.

Refusal

But Naveen Ram is said to have rejected his offer diplomatically, by saying, “I will take the decision after speaking to my supporters.”

Speaking about Munirathnamnaidu, former chief minister said that, “He was closely identified with the party, when I was the chief minister. But some developments in the party made him part from us. But, times have changed and I request him to be with us in the coming elections.”

Reacting to this move, Munirathnamnaidu’s brother Krishnappa has said that he would not join JD(S), if his brother joins the party. “Instead, I will support some other party,” said Krishnappa, bringing out the factor of infighting between the brothers.

JD(S) district president Venkatashivareddy, former MLA M Bhakthavatsalam were present on the occasion.