'Rebel' star Ambareesh not to campaign for Congress in Mandya

Mandya MLA Ambareesh broke his silence over his decision not to contest from Mandya after the KPCC gave the B-form to Ganiga Ravikumar on Tuesday. Ambareesh told media that he had decided not to contest the elections 6 months back, however, yet to formally respond to the Congress which has given him a ticket from Mandya.

Asked about the reason for not to contest elections, Ambareesh said, "I am not keeping well, therefore, I will not campaign for the party candidate in the election."

On whether he would campaign for Ganiga Ravikumar in Mandya, he said, "It is easy to ask votes for me, but it is different to seek vote for other candidates." He categorically said that he would not support any party or candidate in Mandya. It may be recalled that supporters of Ganiga Ravi Kumar destroyed the furniture at the PCC in Mandya protesting against ticket given to Ambareesh.

"I did not suggest a candidate for Mandya. Had I suggested any name it would have been my responsibility to ensure victory for the candidate?," Ambareesh said.

Earlier, as a final call, KPCC chief G Parameshwara had called Ambareesh to him at his residence. However, Ambareesh didn't turn up to meet the party chief. Left with no other option on the last day of filing of nominations, Congress gave B-form to Ganiga Ravikumar.