File photo of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday said the return of BS Yeddyurappa to BJP would not have any impact in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in the state but would only sully the image of the saffron party further.
"The joining of Yeddyurappa in BJP will not make any impact in Karnataka. On the other hand, the BJP's image will be further damaged," he told reporters in Bangalore after the inauguration of Traffic Management Centre.
Mr Yeddyurappa's return would only benefit Congress, Mr Siddaramaiah said.
"The BJP was saying it had removed Yeddyurappa after he was imprisoned, but now is inviting him. So what will happen to the party," he said.
Ending months of speculation, Mr Yeddyurappa on Monday said he would return to the BJP, which he had deserted to form his own outfit more than a year ago.
On Nandan Nilekani contesting the Lok Sabha seat from Bangalore South constituency, Mr Siddaramaiah said that Mr Nilekani has expressed his intentions to contest and he told him he would discuss the issue with the Congress high command.
Earlier, speaking at the function, Mr Siddaramaiah asked the police to create an environment where people can lead a fearless life. "If people abide by the laws, then most of the problems will be solved automatically," he said.
Mr Siddaramaiah said the government has spent Rs 23 crore for setting up the traffic management centre.