Mysuru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah challenged Union minister D V Sadananda Gowda to contest from Varuna Assembly constituency during elections in 2018. “What connection does Mr Gowda have with Varuna? If he knows enough about Varuna, let him contest,” he told the media here on Saturday while reacting to the Union minister’s statement that the atmosphere was not conducive for the chief minister in Varuna constituency.
Mr Siddaramaiah said some BJP MLAs were in touch with him as they were keen to join the Congress and contest Assembly elections as its nominees. In case they join the ruling party, they would be given tickets while factoring in their chances of victory in polls, he added. Asked whether Mr Umesh Katti would join the Congress, he said: “He is my good friend, but he has not said that he will come to the Congress.” On preparations for forthcoming Assembly elections, he said, “Ahead of elections, I am already touring the state, and will commence an intensive tour from December 13.” On the controversy over reservations in promotions, he said “we will meet the President of India after the matter (Bill) reaches him.” Mr Siddaramaiah said he had told Pratap Simha that he was a young author and MP and therefore change his attitude and language.
