BJP accuses Cong of attempting caste division in Dakshina Kannada

Team Udayavani, Apr 21, 2024, 11:14 AM IST

Harikrishna Bantwal, spokesperson for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleged that the Congress party, having failed to create a Hindu-Muslim divide in the district, is now resorting to dividing Hindus based on caste lines. He labeled Padmaraj, the Congress candidate in Dakshina Kannada, as a tool employed by the Congress for this purpose.

During a press conference held in the city on Saturday, he claimed that the Congress’s strategy with Padmaraj’s candidacy is not aimed at securing victory but rather at splintering Hindu society along caste lines.

Harikrishna further criticized the president of Rashtriya Billavara Maha Mandala for seeking votes on behalf of a political party, considering it an insult to the Billava community. He called for the resignation of the Mandala president, asserting that Billavas have always upheld nationalist ideals but some individuals have strayed from this path in the name of community organization.

Highlighting past events, he pointed out instances where the Congress and Padmaraj opposed the naming of Narayana Guru Circle and the installation of a statue at Ladyhill. These initiatives were accomplished through the efforts of Biruver Kudla founder Udaya Poojary, MP Nalin, MLA Vedavyasa Kamath, and others. Harikrishn criticized Congress members for remaining silent when some of their colleagues allegedly abused Janardana Poojary.

Moreover, he raised questions about the Siddaramaiah government’s allocation of funds to the Shri Narayanguru Abhivriddhi nigam Board established by the BJP government in the budget, highlighting discrepancies in the Congress’s stance on issues concerning the Billava community.

He urged the public to consider the actions and track record of political parties and candidates, particularly regarding their commitment to community welfare and unity.