A BJP delegation in Karnataka has lodged a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer against Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar. The complaint accuses Eshwar of making derogatory remarks and appealing to voters on religious grounds during an election campaign. The BJP alleged that Eshwar used abusive language against party leaders and made objectionable statements at a public rally on March 27.
The BJP delegation claimed that Eshwar targeted expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and former BJP MP Pratap Simha with derogatory remarks. Additionally, Eshwar was accused of making a direct appeal to voters on religious grounds, specifically addressing the Muslim community. The BJP stated that Eshwar’s remarks aimed to influence electoral choices and polarize voters based on religious identity.
According to the BJP, Eshwar’s statements during the campaign constituted an impermissible appeal to voters on the basis of religion and community. The party alleged that Eshwar’s comments were directed at influencing the electoral choices of Muslim community members. The BJP further alleged that Eshwar’s remarks were intended to polarize the electorate along communal lines and influence the election outcome through religious sentiments.
Citing provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the BJP alleged that Eshwar’s statements promoted enmity between communities and constituted corrupt electoral practices. The party also claimed violations of the Model Code of Conduct and provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The BJP emphasized that such statements could incite disharmony, create fear among communities, and adversely affect public tranquility.
The BJP urged the Election Commission to take immediate and stringent action against Eshwar for the alleged violations. The party emphasized that such conduct undermines the integrity of the electoral process and violates legal and ethical norms.
