Karnataka Congress leaders from the minority community are optimistic about winning the Bagalkot and Davanagere bye-elections. They cite internal surveys and broad public support as key factors. Notable leaders like Rizwan Arshad, Yasir Khan Pathan, Balkis Banu, and others expressed this confidence at a press conference in Bengaluru.
During a joint press conference at the KPCC office in Bengaluru, Saleem Ahmad, the government Chief Whip, highlighted the party’s strong chances based on internal assessments. He emphasized the developmental work done in Davanagere South by late Shamanur Shivashankarappa as a significant factor in the party’s favor.
Ahmad mentioned that despite misinformation spread by opposition parties regarding Congress’s guarantee schemes, voters from minority communities continue to stand by the party. He thanked party workers, leaders, and voters for their support.
MLA Rizwan Arshad noted the diverse support for the Congress candidate in Davanagere, encompassing people of various castes, religions, and communities. He criticized the BJP and SDPI for spreading false information on social media. Arshad acknowledged the demand for a minority community candidate and the party’s agreement in principle, although a consensus on a specific candidate was lacking.
Arshad also addressed internal challenges within the party regarding candidate selection, admitting to lapses in coordination. He refuted claims branding minority leaders as “traitors” and emphasized their commitment to the party. Arshad warned against potential communal discord if the BJP wins in Davanagere, asserting the Congress’s stance on upholding secular values.
