BJP mulls backing Mallya for RS

Sources in the BJP said the party was yet to apply its mind to the question because it suspects that the Congress and the JD (S) have fielded Mallya as their common candidate.
The BJP is yet to decide on issuing whip to its members for the poll. Thursday is the last day for withdrawal of nominations.

The Chief Minister has taken a U-turn on the party’s stand on Mallya. In Belgaum on Wednesday, he declared that the BJP was against supporting Mallya as he was backed by the JD(S).

But on Thursday, while interacting with reporters in Bangalore, he said it is left to the high command to decide.

Anonymous caller

Congress candidate T V Maruthi, who is also in the fray, on Wednesday said that he received a call from an unknown person who offered him Rs five crore to withdraw from the fray.

“The caller, who did not identify himself, said in this old age why do you want to take risk. Goddesses Lakshmi will come to your house. Withdraw your papers”, Maruthi said.

Maruthi told the caller that he can’t be bought by anyone and he will not withdraw from the fray at any cost following which the phone was disconnected.