JD(S) MLA GT Devegowda Rejects Exit Rumors, Vows to Stay in Party
JD(S) MLA from Chamundeshwari, GT Devegowda, made a strong statement on Monday. He firmly asserted his intention to remain in the party. This declaration came just one day after former minister SR Mahesh suggested in Bengaluru that Devegowda might not stay with the JD(S).
Devegowda Addresses Speculation and Constituency Priorities
Speaking directly to reporters, Devegowda clarified his position. He explained that his absence from recent party meetings in Bengaluru and other locations should not be misunderstood. The MLA emphasized that he is heavily occupied with work in his vast Chamundeshwari assembly segment.
"My constituency has a lot of issues — from parks to drinking water, drainage, and more. Resolving these problems is my top priority. I get tired attending to them," Devegowda stated.
He addressed rumors that the JD(S) might field former minister SR Mahesh in his place. Devegowda urged his supporters and party workers not to panic over such speculation. He reiterated that his main goals are serving the people of Chamundeshwari and strengthening the party at the grassroots level.
Commitment to JD(S) Despite Internal Challenges
Devegowda acknowledged that he has stayed away from active party programs for nearly two years. He also admitted to being seen close to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. However, he maintained that he never took a single step away from the JD(S).
"I do not have the mindset to betray anyone," Devegowda said firmly.
He recalled playing a key role in rebuilding and strengthening the JD(S) in the Mysuru region after Siddaramaiah left the party for Congress. Devegowda stressed that he was elected as a JD(S) representative and remains firmly with the party.
"I'm firmly with JD(S) and will remain in JD(S," he asserted.
The MLA added that he has never criticized party patriarch H D Deve Gowda or former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy. While admitting that certain developments within the party hurt him, Devegowda clarified that this did not prompt him to leave or speak against the JD(S).
Launch of Midday Meal Program for College Students
In a separate development, Devegowda launched a midday meal program on Monday. He initiated this scheme to ensure that no students from rural areas within the Chamundeshwari constituency go hungry in the afternoon.
The MLA, with help from his friends, officially started the program at Vijayanagar Government Women's First-Grade College. Devegowda and Iskcon's Akshaya Patra Foundation president Krishnaswamy served meals to students during the launch.
Krishnaswamy noted that Devegowda has visited the Iskcon temple for many years, indicating a good relationship between them.
While the government provides midday meals for primary school children, no such scheme exists for college students. Devegowda became the first to conceptualize a meal program specifically for college attendees.
"Along with my friends, we are covering the expenses for providing meals to students. We have made arrangements for continuous meal distribution in the coming days," Devegowda explained.
This initiative highlights his ongoing commitment to addressing practical needs within his constituency, even as he navigates political challenges.
