The former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda has been denied a Rajya Sabha ticket by the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), raising questions about the end of his parliamentary journey. The decision comes ahead of the biennial elections to the upper house from Karnataka, where the ruling coalition holds a majority.
Congress criticizes BJP over Gowda's exclusion
AICC Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala accused the BJP of humiliating a former Prime Minister. He alleged that Union Minister and Gowda's son, H D Kumaraswamy, was clinging to his ministerial position despite his father being sidelined. Surjewala said, "The BJP has shown its true colors by denying a ticket to a respected statesman. This is an insult not just to Gowda but to the people of Karnataka."
Political implications for the NDA
The exclusion of Deve Gowda, who led the United Front government in 1996-97, marks a significant shift in Karnataka's political landscape. Gowda has been a key figure in the Janata Dal (Secular) and later aligned with the BJP. Analysts suggest that the move could strain relations within the alliance, especially with the Vokkaliga community, which Gowda represents.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders have remained tight-lipped, stating that the decision was based on electoral arithmetic and the need to accommodate other allies. The party is expected to field candidates from its own ranks and coalition partners.
Deve Gowda, now 93, has served as a member of the Rajya Sabha since 2020. His term is set to expire in June 2026. With no ticket in sight, his parliamentary career appears to be drawing to a close. Political observers note that this could pave the way for a new generation of leaders in Karnataka's political arena.
