Other candidates in Jayanagar suspend campaigns

A majority of shops and private establishments in Jayanagar constituency, barring emergency services such as pharmacies, remained closed in and around Jayanagar 3 and 4 block, where MLA Vijay Kumar’s office and residence are located. His office in 4T Block, usually bustling with activity, was deserted.

B.S. Raghunath, an employee of a private establishment in Jayanagar and resident of the locality, said he had seen Mr. Vijay Kumar several times in the neighbourhood. “We are all deeply saddened to hear this news. Since this has come ahead of the elections, this changes the dynamics of polling. We now have to wait and see as to who the party will field in his place.”

N.S. Mukunda, founding president, Citizens Action Forum, said that he knew the MLA for nearly a decade. “Our relationship went beyond politics, as he knew that ideologically I was anti-BJP. But he always sought inputs from CAF on all civic issues and we also developed a personal rapport. He willingly participated in a documentary that we had produced on water,” he said.

There were rumours of his ill health, but many of his supporters dismissed them as hearsay.

N. Mukund, member of Jayanagar 5 Block Residents’ Welfare Association said that people were aware that there will be no election in the constituency until fresh nominations are announced.

JD(S) candidate Kale Gowda, Indian National Congress representative Sowmya Reddy and independent candidate Ravi Krishna Reddy are currently in the fray from Jayanagar Assembly constituency. They have suspended campaigning activities in the wake of Mr. Vijay Kumar’s death..

“Our campaign will be suspended until Monday as a mark of respect,” said Ravi Krishna Reddy.

The team of Sowmya Reddy too has temporarily suspended most of their campaign activities for the time being, according to the team members.