CM to camp in Mandya, seek votes for son

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has decided to stay in Mandya city to ensure the victory of his son Nikhil Kumaraswamy ahead of the elections. He will launch the campaign after performing puja at the Adichunchanagiri Mutt on Wednesday, sources said.

The chief minister will also hold a meeting of the elected representatives of the party in the city. Later, he will join Nikhil in his campaign and tour the district. His wife and Ramanagar MLA Anitha Kumaraswamy will accompany them.

Nikhil will file his nomination papers on March 25, which is said to be an auspicious Panchami day. The CM will stay in the Mandya Lok Sabha constituency till the elections are over, sources said.

Anitha Kumaraswamy on Tuesday visited Hole Anjaneyaswami temple in Maddur town. She performed puja in the name of Nikhil in the morning.

JD(S) workers raised slogans against actors Darshan and Yash, during Nikhil’s campaign in Malavalli taluk.

The actors have extended unconditional support to Nikhil’s rival Sumalatha Ambareesh and had even accompanied her during the press conference in Bengaluru on Monday. The social media is abuzz with criticisms against the duo, saying, “Where did you people go when the farmers of Mandya committed suicide and also during the Cauvery struggle”. The party workers have also planned a ‘go back’ movement against the actors, it is said. Sumalatha Ambareesh, who is contesting as an Independent from the Mandya seat, will file her papers on March 20 (Wednesday).

Later, a procession will be taken out from the Deputy Commissioner’s office to Silver Jubilee Park, where a public meeting has been organised. She will be accompanied by a number of film artistes.

Support for Ambi’s wife

Actor Sudeep has tweeted wishing Sumalatha success. His tweet read, “My best wishes @sumalathaA akka. You have witnessed mama (Ambareesh) from the closest quarters. I’m sure his strength and support will come to you through the same people whom you want to serve. Much love and wishes akka.”

Sumalatha replied: “Thank you my dear @KicchaSudeep. You have been part of our lives from decades and share a bond which is very special always. Your wishes mean a lot, gives me courage to take on this challenging path ahead.”