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Udupi: Shiroor Swamiji to contest as independent or on BJP ticket in upcoming election

Udupi: Sri Laxmivarateertha Swamiji, head seer of Shiroor Math, choosing to enter the election as an independent, or as BJP candidate if given the ticket has made the election battle in Udupi district more interesting.

Reporting his choice in a press meet here on Saturday March 10, Shiroor Swamiji stated, "I didn’t have to participate in elections, yet I feel political gatherings are not reacting to individuals’ issues as they ought to respond. Along these lines I have chosen to challenge the Assembly elections this time as an independent from Udupi constituency.

Saying that he was prepared to compete from BJP if given the ticket, he stated, "The BJP leaders in Udupi are not completing a great job. When they were in control, they didn’t do anything for Udupi. I feel disheartened about this. Thus, I am prepared to challenge on BJP ticket, if given, with the goal that I can work for the advancement of the party in Udupi. If not, I will challenge as an independent candidate.

Speaking with the media persons during the press meet at Shiroor Math near Harikandige, the Swamiji said that main intention to enter into the politics that we need growth of the area and the people. I did not need to enter into the politics. But I need to contest in the election to solve the problems of the people. I am not against the Pramod Madhwaraj or the Congress. Praising Pramod Madhwaraj, Swamiji said that Pradmod had done excellent job with his achievements that I have no complaints with Pramod Madhwaraj or the BJP also in general. But I am against of BJP of Udupi district, he said.

When asked if he would agree to contest from Congress, he said Congress already has a good candidate. Pramod Madhwaraj is role model to all that he had done excellent job. I have not against the BJP in Karnataka or central leadership of BJP. But I am against the Udupi BJP leaders, he said.

When asked that if he would change his mind if the Astha Math Swamijis oppose his decision, he said that they will not oppose that there is no such rule that we should not contest in elections. The contesting election has no connection to the Asha Maths. I will not expect to travel overseas neither.

Asked about the fund to contest in the election that more than Rs 30 crores needed, he said I will not need money to stand for the elections. After that I will manage, he said.

Asked how he would fulfill his religious commitments when he needs to go to Bengaluru for political reasons or whatsoever, he said he will manage during that time and will make alternative arrangements. The Shiroor Math in Kaup Constituency, but will contest in Udupi legislative constituency, he said.

When asked about other political parties invited him to contest, he said nobody knows about his decision. I have no option, but to contest in the election at any cost. It is my sole decision to contest in the election as independent candidate. I felt bad when political parties indulged in corruption and laziness in working for the people. Our people are good to take the decision. It may possible to gain congress when I am contesting in the election. But I have to contest in the election in any cost, he said.