Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi 

Udupi, June 9: Amid efforts by the Congress leadership to bring back former party leaders across Karnataka, speculation is mounting over the possible return of former Udupi MLA Pramodh Madhwaraj to the party.

Political activity surrounding the re-induction of leaders who had left the Congress in recent years has reportedly gathered pace at both the state and district levels. Among the prominent names being discussed is that of Madhwaraj, who quit the Congress in 2022 and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Madhwaraj's switch to the BJP was widely viewed as a move aimed at securing a larger political role. However, despite expectations of being entrusted with significant responsibilities, he was not given any major organisational or political position within the party.

At the time of his departure from the Congress, Madhwaraj had stated that he felt "suffocated" within the party and had therefore decided to leave.

Sources indicate that Madhwaraj was recently hopeful of securing a Rajya Sabha nomination from the BJP. However, the nomination did not materialise despite attempts to pursue the matter through the party's high command.

Against this backdrop, political circles are abuzz with reports that Madhwaraj is considering a return to the Congress. With significant changes taking place in the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), senior leaders are said to be exploring the possibility of bringing him back into the party fold.

The developments come at a time when the Congress in Udupi is grappling with organisational challenges and a perceived lack of strong district-level leadership. The party has performed poorly in a series of recent elections, leading to growing demands from workers for structural and leadership changes.

With local body elections on the horizon, party workers are said to be looking for leadership that can revitalise the organisation and strengthen its grassroots presence. Although the Congress continues to have a sizeable cadre base in the district, many workers believe that the absence of effective leadership has hindered the party's growth and electoral prospects.

Sources further claim that Madhwaraj has discussed the possibility of rejoining the Congress with some of his close associates following the recent developments in the state unit. It is also learnt that he is keen to meet chief minister D K Shivakumar and KPCC president B K Hariprasad to discuss the matter.

While neither side has made any official announcement, sources suggest that discussions are taking place at the highest levels, with only a select group of leaders aware of the ongoing deliberations.