Bengaluru: Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda has confirmed discussions with the BJP's leadership in Delhi regarding the possibility of an understanding between the two parties for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Gowda stated that these talks were conducted in the interest of the state and to preserve his party, the JD(S). He clarified that the seat-sharing arrangement was not discussed during his meetings in the national capital.

Addressing JD(S) party workers in Bengaluru, Gowda explained his actions, saying, "Yes, I contacted BJP leaders in Delhi, not for Deve Gowda to become Prime Minister once again but to save this party." He emphasized his commitment to the regional party, which he has nurtured for 40 years.

Gowda also mentioned that his son and party leader, H D Kumaraswamy, will engage in discussions with the BJP leadership to determine the extent of their electoral understanding, including the allocation of seats. "There is nothing to hide," he asserted.

Regarding the BJP's strength in various constituencies, Gowda stated, "Similarly, BJP too should not think that JD(S) doesn't have anything." He emphasized the need for a fair and equitable understanding between the two parties.

Gowda defended his actions against criticism, saying, "I am being criticized for trying to make 'immoral contact' with the BJP leadership in Delhi. Who and which leader of the state has how much morality, I can analyze, but I won't indulge in personal attacks."

Veteran BJP leader B S Yediyurappa had previously indicated the possibility of both parties reaching a poll understanding, with the BJP ceding four out of the total 28 Lok Sabha seats to JD(S). However, Kumaraswamy clarified that discussions regarding BJP and JD(S) contesting the Lok Sabha polls together were still in the initial phase, with no talks on seat-sharing.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka, the BJP won 25 seats, an independent candidate backed by the BJP secured one seat, and the Congress and JD(S) each won one seat.

Both Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy criticized the Congress government in Karnataka for its policies and expressed their determination to protect the interests of the state and its minorities. They also vowed to defeat the ruling Congress party in the upcoming elections.