Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) national president HD Deve Gowda on Tuesday firmly denied seeking a Rajya Sabha seat, asserting that his relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi transcends parliamentary positions. Addressing reporters at the party office in Bengaluru, Gowda emphasized that his decades-long commitment to public service has never been motivated by a desire to hold office.
Gowda clarifies stance on Rajya Sabha
“I have spent over seven decades in public life. Public service has always been more important to me than holding office. I never demanded a Rajya Sabha seat,” Gowda stated. He accused Congress functionaries of politicizing the issue, noting that if he had wanted the seat, he would have raised it with Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his visit to New Delhi on May 27. “I met them, but I did not raise the issue,” he added.
Dismisses claims of humiliation
Describing the debate over his not being renominated as unnecessary, Gowda dismissed suggestions that he had been slighted. “Some people are making baseless statements. I do not attach much importance to claims that I have been humiliated. There is no meaning in such arguments,” he said.
Bond with Modi remains strong
Gowda went on to say, “If anyone thinks a Rajya Sabha seat can damage our relationship with Modi, it is foolishness.” He acknowledged past criticism of Modi, including over the Godhra incident, but noted that over time he has come to understand and trust the Prime Minister, appreciating his work. “My relationship with him is personal. Whether I am in Parliament or not, that bond will remain intact,” he said.
Future plans and party commitment
While expressing displeasure over remarks by Congress office-bearers, Gowda said he had no intention of responding. He affirmed that despite being out of electoral politics, he will remain active in strengthening JD(S). “I will not sit idle. I will continue to work for the party and its workers,” he concluded.
