Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed optimism about the Congress winning the upcoming by-elections in Davanagere and Bagalkot after independent candidate Sadiq Pylwan withdrew his nomination. Siddaramaiah shared his confidence during a press conference at the Congress office in Bengaluru. Sadiq had contested against Samarth Mallikarjun, the grandson of late Congress leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa, for the Davanagere South seat.
The Chief Minister acknowledged his acquaintance with Sadiq for many years, mentioning their interactions during wrestling events in Mysuru. He emphasized the legitimacy of aspiring for candidacy and revealed that 11 candidates had withdrawn their nominations recently. Siddaramaiah thanked Sadiq for stepping down from the contest at the party’s request, highlighting his loyalty as a long-time Congress member.
Despite efforts by MLA Rizwan Arshad, Legislative Council Chief Whip Saleem Ahmad, and the Chief Minister’s Political Secretary Nazeer Ahmad to prevent Sadiq’s nomination, they arrived late in Davanagere. Siddaramaiah, unable to visit personally due to legislative commitments, praised Sadiq’s dedication to the Congress over four decades. He noted the significant Muslim voter base in Davanagere and the party’s decision to grant the ticket to Samarth Mallikarjun.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar confirmed Sadiq’s unconditional withdrawal from the contest, emphasizing the Congress’s commitment to supporting him against the Bharatiya Janata Party. The party announced a list of star campaigners for the bypolls, including prominent leaders like All India Congress Committee President Mallikarjun Kharge and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, among others.
