New Delhi (PTI) : Four-term Karnataka Assembly member and Janata Dal (Secular) leader AT Ramaswamy joined the BJP on Saturday, saying he was impressed with the ruling party and its leadership.

Ramaswamy joined the party after resigning as an MLA. He represented the Arkalgud constituency in Hassan district, a traditional stronghold of JD(S) patriarch and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda. The BJP has been trying to hard to strengthen its presence in the region.

He joined the BJP in the presence of Union Minister Anurag Thakur and also met party chief JP Nadda.

Thakur said it is clear that only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give an honest government devoted to good governance.

Nadda tweeted after the meeting, “I welcome AT Ramaswamy ji into the BJP. His decision to become a member of our party is a reflection of the massive support for our ideology and vision for Karnataka. I’m certain his legislative experience will strengthen the party and help us to serve Karnataka more diligently.” Claiming that he was not an aspirant for any “MLA post”, Ramaswamy said he was a victim of “money power” as he often raised the issue of corruption and other irregularities.

Assembly elections in Karnataka will be held on May 10.