Belagavi (Karnataka): Former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa declared that he will not contest the upcoming Assembly elections. However, he made it clear that he will travel across the state to strengthen the party. Speaking to the media in Belagavi on Sunday, Yediyurappa said, ''I have not yet retired. Hence, I will work for the party in the ensuing elections if God gives me strength."
He further said, "I will try to bring BJP to power in Karnataka yet again, but I will not foray into national politics. Vajpayee had invited me when he was the Prime Minister and the party has given me status, authority and respect in Karnataka. It is my responsibility to give back to the party. So, I will travel across the state ahead of polls."
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When the media asked if he contests the next Assembly elections, his influence will be more significant for the party, Yeddyurappa said that he has already decided not to contest the next elections. ''We are going to face elections in the next three months in Karnataka. Union Home Minister Amit Shah guided us in that regard and we will win 140 seats in the upcoming elections. Many people have declared themselves as Chief Ministerial candidates and they are daydreaming. But, BJP coming to power in Karnataka is a foregone conclusion," BSY said.
Former CM BS Yeddyurappa condoled the martyrdom of the Wing Commander of Belagvi in the crash of fighter planes in Madhya Pradesh's Morena. ''I am saddened to hear this news. May the soul of Hanumantha Rao Sarathi rest in peace. Let the family members of Hanumantha Rao be given the strength,'' he said.
