Kolar (Karnataka), April 20 (UNI) Former Prime Minister and JDS president HD Deve Gowda has responded to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent characterisation of JDS as the "BJP's B team."

"Yes, I am BJP's B team leader. So what?" Gowda said here late Friday evening, speaking at a poll campaign in the Kolar Parliamentary seat in support of NDA candidate Mallesh Babu.
Deve Gowda took the opportunity to criticise the Congress government for allegedly neglecting the Ettinahole project, aimed at providing water to the region.

He highlighted that pipes laid during the BJP government's tenure are now rusting, and Congress has failed to prioritize projects despite people and women in Bengaluru facing water scarcity.
"In the last Assembly election, people voted for the Congress government expecting guarantees. However, now people are struggling even for drinking water in Bengaluru," Gowda commented.
Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Gowda predicted that the Congress will not retain power in the state and added "This time, PM Modi is confident of securing 400 Lok Sabha seats."
Reflecting on his past political challenges, Gowda recalled his 2014 electoral defeat against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Despite being prepared to resign, Modi urged him to remain in Parliament due to his significant experience.

"I am 93 years old. In 2014, I challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and faced defeat. Though I was ready to resign, Prime Minister Modi believed my experience was invaluable and encouraged me to stay," Gowda recounted.
Rahul Gandhi, during his recent visit to Karnataka, had warned the public about the JDS alliance with the BJP, a prediction that has since materialised.
As the Lok Sabha elections draw nearer, the political temperature in Karnataka is rising, with parties and leaders engaging in spirited exchanges and offering their predictions for the election's outcome.

UNI BDN SY ING