BENGALURU – In a significant political development, Karnataka MP Sumalatha Ambareesh announced her decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), expressing faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Ambareesh, who won her seat in the 2019 elections as an independent candidate, stated that her decision to join the BJP was gradual and not impulsive. She expressed hope that her inclusion would add value to the party and strengthen its base in Mandya.
During her election campaign in 2019, the Congress party was in alliance with the Janata Dal (Secular). However, Ambareesh clarified that it was the Congress workers, not the party leadership, who supported her. “It was not the party leadership that ever gave me space or supported me. Ambareesh’s supporters stood by me,” she said.
She also addressed the issue of some individuals attempting to take credit for her political success. “Now when some people try to take credit for it, I don’t know how logical it is?” she questioned.
Ambareesh further revealed that the Congress leadership never approached her in the past five years. In contrast, she expressed her belief in Modi’s leadership and his ability to convert his vision into reality.
“My journey to join the BJP has been gradual. I am hoping I will add value to the party and the party will strengthen its base in Mandya,” she concluded.
This move marks a significant shift in Karnataka’s political landscape, with potential implications for future elections.