The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced its candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha election from Karnataka, effectively signaling the end of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda's parliamentary career. In a statement released around midnight, the party named Prof (Dr) M Nagaraja as its official candidate for the biennial election to the upper house of Parliament.
Key Details of the Announcement
The BJP's decision came late on June 7, 2026, catching many by surprise. Prof Nagaraja, a well-known academic and medical professional, will contest the election from Karnataka. The move is seen as a strategic shift by the saffron party, which has been looking to consolidate its position in the state.
End of an Era for Deve Gowda
HD Deve Gowda, the veteran politician and former Prime Minister, had been representing Karnataka in the Rajya Sabha. With the BJP fielding its own candidate, Deve Gowda's tenure in the upper house is set to conclude. The 93-year-old leader has been a prominent figure in Indian politics for decades, serving as Prime Minister from 1996 to 1997. His exit from the Rajya Sabha marks a significant moment in Karnataka's political landscape.
The BJP's announcement has been met with mixed reactions. While party supporters have welcomed the decision, opposition leaders have criticized it as a move to sideline regional stalwarts. The Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) have yet to officially respond.
Prof Nagaraja's Profile
Prof (Dr) M Nagaraja is a respected figure in the fields of education and healthcare. He has served as a professor at several prestigious institutions and has been involved in various social initiatives. His candidature is expected to strengthen the BJP's appeal among educated and professional voters in Karnataka.
The biennial Rajya Sabha election from Karnataka is scheduled to take place in the coming weeks. The BJP's decision to field a candidate underscores its commitment to expanding its footprint in the state ahead of future assembly and Lok Sabha elections.
