Congress unaffected by BJP-JD(S) alliance: Karnataka Minister Parameshwara

Addressing reporters, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara took a dig at the alliance between the Janata Dal (Secular) and the BJP, asserting that the collaboration has no adverse impact on the Congress.

Parameshwara expressed confidence in the Congress’s strengthened prospects due to the BJP and JD(S) joining forces. He remarked, “It doesn’t affect us. The moment they got together, our prospects were strengthened… We have better prospects because they joined together.”

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) state president H D Kumaraswamy revealed having a crucial meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national president J P Nadda in New Delhi concerning preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The JD(S) became part of the NDA in September the previous year following discussions between H D Kumaraswamy and Home Minister Shah, and BJP national president Nadda in New Delhi. Both parties confirmed their alliance for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka.

In the May elections for the 224-member Karnataka Assembly last year, the JD(S) performed poorly, securing only 19 seats, while the Congress won 135, and the BJP claimed 66.

Addressing the Ram Temple issue, G Parameshwara noted that there are several other significant matters beyond this and characterized Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ayodhya for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony as a ‘political’ move.

Highlighting diverse concerns such as financial and economic issues, poverty alleviation, and unemployment, Parameshwara emphasized that these topics would be prioritized in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. While acknowledging the presence of the Ram Mandir issue, he reassured that the Congress, being Hindus themselves, would handle it appropriately. He viewed the Prime Minister’s visit as a political event, coinciding with the forthcoming elections.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony for Lord Ram’s idol is scheduled at the grand temple in Ayodhya around 12:30 PM on January 22, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance. Elaborate arrangements are underway for the ceremony.