RS polls: BJP hints at supporting Vijay Mallya

New Delhi, June 14 (ANI): Liquor baron Vijay Mallya is likely to be supported by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for Rajya Sabha seat during June 17 polls.

Mallya is contesting for the Upper House from Karnataka. The Janata Dal (Secular), led by former Prime Minister H D Devegowda, has already supported him.

According to the BJP sources, the party made its mind to support Mallya to avoid Congress from getting advantage.

However, a formal announcement would be made in Bangalore on Tuesday after the meeting of party's legislatures.

The BJP has fielded its former president M Venkaiah Naidu and spokesperson of Ayanooru Manjunath for two seats.

The Congress has fielded former Union Minister and party general secretary Oscar Fernandis and T V Maruti.

At present there is a direct fight between Maruti and Mallya for the fourth seat.

As the JD (S) already assured 28 votes, Mallya is short of 17 more votes to reach magic figure of 45. With BJP's surplus votes Mallya's road to Rajya Sabha would be easier.

Earlier in the month, Mallya held a series of meetings with BJP president Nitin Gadkari and other senior leaders. (ANI)