Bharatiya Janata Party MLA BP Harish criticized Karnataka Forest and Ecology Minister Eshwar Khandre for allegedly misleading the public in Davanagere by supporting the Congress candidate from Davanagere South. Harish, during a press conference in Davanagere, also accused the Akhila Bharat Veerashaiva Mahasabha of being influenced by wealthy individuals, Congress-aligned Veerashaivas, and elites.
He claimed that false information was spread during a Veerashaiva community meeting on April 6, alleging that the Mahasabha was being misused for corrupt activities and to pressure political parties for ministerial positions. Harish expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the organization had not helped underprivileged Veerashaivas.
Harish further criticized Khandre’s recent press interaction, questioning his support for a Congress candidate linked to environmental concerns. He raised concerns about untreated industrial waste being discharged into the Tungabhadra River and criticized the minister for allegedly providing inaccurate information in the Assembly.
The BJP MLA also disputed claims about educational contributions in Davanagere, attributing the development of educational institutions to philanthropic families like Rajanalli and Ajjampur. He accused certain individuals of wrongly taking credit for establishing Chigateri Hospital and raised personal allegations regarding hunting practices in Shivashankarappa’s family.
Harish emphasized the need for independence in leadership roles within the Mahasabha and criticized the lack of representation for ordinary Veerashaivas. He pointed out discrepancies in the establishment and control of various institutions in Davanagere, alleging that Minister Mallikarjun had marginalized family stakeholders for personal gain.
