Can BJP-JD(S) alleged secret pact in Karnataka trounce Congress?

Speculations of an alliance between Janata Dal Secular (JD(S)) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka grew stronger on Tuesday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing a rally in Udupi showered praises on former prime minister and JD(S) supremo HD Deve Gowda.

Prime Minister Modi said that he respects the veteran leader Deve Gowda, there might be a difference of opinion but one has to maintain civility. He also said that when Deve Gowda comes to Delhi to meet him, he himself steps out to open the car door and welcome Deve Gowda.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had called JDS as BJP's 'B-team' in Deve Gowda's home turf Hasan.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also said that its not Janata Dal (secular) rather its Janata Dal (sangh parivar).

JD(S) too welcomed the comment made by PM Modi. JD(S) spokesperson Ramesh Babu said that the party welcomes PM's comment on Deve Gowda.