Mysuru: Chamundeshwari MLA G.T. Devegowda (GTD) has claimed that former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy (HDK) became Karnataka Chief Minister twice because of the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari, the support of the people of the Constituency and his own backing. 

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating development works at Belawadi village yesterday, he said it was at a JD(S) workers’ convention held at Kalamandira in Mysuru that he had first proposed Kumaraswamy’s name for the Chief Minister’s post. 

“Later, the ‘Kumara Parva’ rally held in Chamundeshwari Constituency received an overwhelming response. The support of the people, along with my backing, enabled Kumaraswamy to become CM twice,” he said. 

Stressing that development remains his priority, Devegowda said he was not interested in political speculation. 

“Whichever party is in power and whoever is the Chief Minister, my only concern is the development of Chamundeshwari Constituency. I don’t follow social media or pay attention to political gossip. My strength is the people of the Constituency and I will continue to work for them,” he said. 

No plans to join Congress 

Dismissing rumours that he was planning to join the Congress, GTD recalled that similar speculation had surfaced when he questioned then  Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s  resignation during Dasara  celebrations. 

“I never had plans to join the Congress. I only sought special grants for the Constituency and Rs. 25 crore was sanctioned, just as it was for other Constituencies. Even after Siddaramaiah demitted office, I reminded him of his promise. Recently, I met Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar at an official meeting. I will meet him again soon to seek  additional funds for development works,” he said. 

Responding to questions on Kumaraswamy’s reported remarks distancing himself from the party, Devegowda said he had not heard the comments. 

“Kumaraswamy himself has said we have not been in touch for the past one-and-a-half years. He has much more political experience than me. He has served as Chief Minister twice and is now a Union Minister. He also made me a Minister twice. Just as H.D. Deve Gowda protected and strengthened the party, Kumaraswamy will now take that responsibility forward,” he said. 

Asked whether he would take the lead in strengthening the party organisation, GTD said his focus remained solely on the development of Chamundeshwari Constituency. 

“People are asking me to contest again in the 2028 Assembly elections and I have assured them that I will continue to serve the Constituency. Beyond that, I have no other political agenda,” he added. GTD offered no direct comment on Kumaraswamy’s claim of moving away from the party fold.