K’taka MLA Janardhana Reddy to Rejoin BJP Ahead Of 2024 Lok Sabha Polls

Bengaluru: Prominent mining magnate and sole MLA of Karnataka Rajya Pragathi Paksha (KRPP), G. Janardhana Reddy has announced his return to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Reddy cited his support for Narendra Modi’s candidacy for a third term as Prime Minister as the primary reason for his decision.

In a press briefing, Reddy stated that after consultations with his supporters, he resolved to rejoin the BJP, with the formal event scheduled for 10 am on Monday. He pledged his backing to BJP candidate B. Sriramulu for the Ballari Lok Sabha seat, referring to Sriramulu as a protege he mentored.

Previously a minister in the BJP-led government under B.S. Yediyurappa, Reddy had faced incarceration in connection with a mining scandal. Following his release, he distanced himself from the BJP and established the KRPP. However, in the 2023 assembly elections, he played a pivotal role in securing the defeat of his siblings, who ran as BJP candidates.

Reddy’s manoeuvres included fielding his wife, Aruna Lakshmi, against his brother, ensuring his sibling’s loss to a Congress candidate in Ballari City. Moreover, in the recent Rajya Sabha elections, Reddy threw his support behind the Congress.