Mangaluru, Oct 13: Former Udupi MLA K Raghupati Bhat has announced his intention to contest the 2028 Assembly elections, while keeping his political options open amid an invitation from the Congress and the possibility of returning to the BJP.

Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru, Bhat said he had not made a final decision on joining the Congress and would consult his supporters before deciding his next political move. He added that he would also consider returning to the BJP if the party invited him back.

Bhat, who was elected MLA from Udupi three times on a BJP ticket, said his long association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the BJP made it difficult to switch parties without careful consideration. He began his political journey in the BJP Yuva Morcha and later served as the party’s district president.

Recalling his differences with the BJP leadership, Bhat said he was deeply hurt after being denied a ticket in the previous Assembly elections. He alleged that he was subsequently assured an opportunity to contest the Legislative Council elections but was eventually denied that chance as well.

He further alleged that some MLAs from his own party had subjected him to personal harassment. The absence of any outreach from senior RSS functionaries or BJP leaders during that period had added to his disappointment, he said.

Bhat said he had not expected special treatment but felt that he deserved the basic courtesy of a conversation, particularly given his years of service to the party. He contrasted his experience with the way former legislators from other constituencies had been treated.

Explaining his decision to enter the electoral fray again in 2028, Bhat said supporters had encouraged him to contest, believing that he had been denied an opportunity by his own party rather than rejected by voters.

However, he said he remained open to reconsidering his plans if people advised him against contesting. Bhat added that stepping away from electoral politics would not prevent him from serving the public, as he could continue helping people without holding an elected position.