I am an aspirant for a Rajya Sabha seat: Sadananda Gowda

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and senior BJP leader D.V. Sadananda Gowda announced his intent to contest for a Rajya Sabha seat, confirming he had informed party leadership of his interest. Speaking in Mysuru on May 25, 2026, Gowda, who also served as a Union Minister under Narendra Modi, reiterated his retirement from electoral politics prior to the last Lok Sabha elections but expressed readiness to accept party responsibilities. Gowda dismissed speculation about a change in Karnataka’s BJP state president, stating he was unaware of any discussions on the matter, as such decisions are made by the party’s central leadership. The current state president has completed two years in office. The BJP leader criticized the Congress-led state government, alleging widespread voter dissatisfaction with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s administration. He claimed the Congress would fail to secure even 50 seats if elections were held immediately, accusing the government of appeasement politics. On rising petroleum prices, Gowda defended the Union government’s approach, asserting it was managing shortages carefully despite global crude oil price increases. He emphasized efforts to prevent public inconvenience while navigating the economic challenges. Gowda’s remarks reflect growing political tensions in Karnataka, where the BJP and JD(S) alliance aims to capitalize on perceived public discontent ahead of potential electoral opportunities.