Karnataka elections: Is the BJP planning on fielding weak candidates from these constituencies?

The Congress has often accused the BJP and JD(S) of being in an understanding with each other in the Karnataka assembly elections. Some leaders have now raised a doubt over this with the BJP not announcing its candidates for the Hassan, Belur and Sakleshpur assembly constituencies.

In some circles, it is being said that the decision has not been taken as yet and there is a likelihood that the party may field weak candidates. This is being done to help the JD(S), sources also said.

The three aspirants from these constituencies have already hit the campaign trail a year back. However, they are upset that the candidate names have not been announced as yet. Take for instance the case of Preetam Gowda and N Somashekhar who are aspiring to contest from Hassan and Sakleshpur respectively. B S Yeddyurappa had visited these constituencies and assured them tickets, but no call has been taken so far. This has led to speculation that the BJP may be trying to help the JD(S) by fielding weak candidates.