In a significant political comeback,
G Janardhan Reddy
, a well-known figure in Karnataka's mining sector and a former tourism minister, has once again embraced the
BJP
. Upon joining, he merged his own party into the BJP and committed himself to work without conditions to see PM Modi elected for a third term.
Reddy, who was embroiled in the infamous mining scam, proudly stated his unconditional integration with the BJP, making clear no political position was his aim.
Once entangled in legal battles and arrested by the CBI for his alleged role in the mining scandal, Reddy had distanced himself from active politics for almost a decade before his bold move in 2022 to establish his party.
Though ousted from his post in 2011 due to the scandals, Reddy had maintained close connections with high-profile BJP members, including his support for the BJP candidate in the 2018 assembly elections despite past conflicts within the party.
Granted Bail in 2015
Reddy secured bail in 2015 after being arrested by the CBI in 2011 for his involvement in illegal iron ore mining that spanned across Bellary in Karnataka and Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh.
Reddy's BJP Legacy
From Campaigning to Political Milestones
Reddy gained fame for his campaign efforts for Sushma Swaraj in the 1999 Lok Sabha elections. His subsequent appointment to the Karnataka Legislative Council in 2006 marked the beginning of his influential political trajectory within the BJP.
His alleged involvement as a chief strategist in the 2008 assembly elections paved the way for BJP's first-ever government in the Southern state. Later, he was appointed as the Minister for Tourism, allowing him insight into the mining industry.
Reddy's tenure took a sharp turn when he and his brother were implicated in a mining scandal by the Lokayukta, posing severe repercussions for the state treasury.
