Expelled former Udupi MLA Raghupathi Bhat wants to return to BJP

Former three-time MLA of Udupi K. Raghupathi Bhat, who was expelled from the BJP for six years for contesting the 2024 Legislative Council election from the South-West Graduates’ constituency as a rebel candidate, said on Thursday that he would be happy to return to the BJP if invited.

Speaking to presspersons in Udupi, Mr. Bhat said he has not yet decided whether to contest the 2028 Assembly elections as a candidate for a political party or as an independent. He said that he is currently engaged with the people and addressing their concerns.

“If I decide to contest the elections, I will inform media first. I want to seek the opinions of my supporters and those who have worked with me before taking any decision, though this process has not yet begun,” he said.

Mr. Bhat said that if he were to contest as an Independent, the views of his supporters and well-wishers would have to be taken into account.

The former MLA said that the State-level party leaders have not yet arrived at a decision regarding the re-induction of leaders who have left the BJP. He affirmed that he would rejoin the BJP whenever an invitation is extended, adding that he remains in constant touch with the party workers.