BJP in Karnataka Rajya Sabha poll fray may mean end of the road for HD Deve Gowda

BENGALURU: BJP's decision to nominate one of its own to fill the Rajya Sabha seat vacated by ex-PM HD Deve Gowda is being seen as the final act of bringing the curtain down on the 93-year-old JD(S) patriarch's political career of over six decades. But sources close to the family said he wouldn't retire from active politics.Deve Gowda's run began in 1962 when he was elected as an Independent MLA from Holenarasipura seat in Karnataka's Hassan district and, barring just four years outside the legislature or Parliament, he held public office uninterrupted. He served eight terms as an MLA, six as an MP and two in the Rajya Sabha."Deve Gowda will tour the state to strengthen JD(S) ahead of the upcoming elections," a party functionary told TOI.While JD(S) is apparently disappointed that Deve Gowda wasn't considered by NDA for another term, state BJP president BY Vijayendra said the saffron party had "immense respect" for the former PM but needed to make the politically right call."There was never any discussion at the state level about sending him to the Rajya Sabha. An opportunity has been given to a suitable candidate and a hardworking party worker," Vijayendra said.BJP's move also signalled the party may go solo in future elections, with the alliance being described as a wait-and-watch proposition till the 2028 assembly polls.