Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, who turned 94 on Monday, said he remains determined to continue fighting for the welfare of the people for as long as possible, even if it means travelling in a wheelchair.
The JD(S) patriarch also expressed confidence that his party’s alliance with the BJP would remain stable ahead of the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections, citing his cordial relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
“I have a strong resolve to continue fighting for the people’s cause for many more days. I will not sit at home thinking that I have completed 93 years of age. Even if required, I will travel in a wheelchair,” Gowda said.
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Reflecting on his long political journey, he said he had spent nearly 68 years in public life consistently working for the people. “Throughout my political career, I have fought for public causes. Whether people recognise it or not does not matter to me. What matters is that I continue to do my duty and stand up for the people,” he said.
Gowda revealed that Prime Minister Modi, who is currently in Sweden, had sent him a birthday message, while Amit Shah and senior BJP leader B S Yediyurappa personally called to convey their wishes. He also said several political leaders, including BJP national president Nitin Nabin, greeted him on the occasion.
Speaking about the 2028 Assembly elections, Gowda noted that the JD(S), being a regional party, is currently a smaller partner in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). However, he said he was confident there would be no major disagreements within the alliance. “I share a good relationship with both Modi and Shah. Because of that, I believe there will not be any serious issues, and if anything does arise, it can be resolved amicably. I’m not worried about it,” he added.
The veteran leader also pointed out that the Congress currently governs Karnataka, Telangana and Kerala in South India, but refrained from making further political predictions. “Let us wait and see what happens in the future. I do not want to comment much on it right now,” he said.
Calling upon JD(S) leaders and party workers to strengthen the organisation, Gowda urged them to work with sincerity, honesty and discipline. He asked them to function like dedicated soldiers of the party and responsibly carry out the duties entrusted to them.
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