In a direct appeal to the minority community ahead of the April 9 by-election to the Davanagere South Assembly constituency, Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar has urged Muslim voters not to support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), describing the party as “unworthy” and accusing it of questioning the patriotism and dignity of Muslim families.
Speaking on the day of nominations, Eshwar, who represents Chikkaballapur, strongly endorsed Congress candidate Samarth Shamanur Mallikarjun, grandson of the late veteran leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa and son of Horticulture Minister S.S. Mallikarjun, as a capable representative of the new generation.
“We have always stood with the minorities. Congress is the only party that can protect your interests,” Eshwar said.
“Even if there are small grievances, I request with folded hands, do not vote for the BJP. They are the ones who questioned your patriotism, insulted your families, and spoke in the most derogatory manner about your women and daughters.”
The Congress leader warned that supporting the BJP out of temporary dissatisfaction could endanger the community’s very existence.
“They spread hatred between Hindus and Muslims. This is not the time to fall into their trap,” he added, addressing both Muslim and Hindu youth.
Eshwar defended the Congress’s decision to field Samarth, a third-generation politician from the influential Shamanur family, against allegations of dynastic politics.
He pointed out that the BJP candidate, Srinivas T., also comes from a political family background, having previously been associated with the Janata Dal (Secular).
“As an individual, Samarth is capable and efficient. This is a new generation entering politics, and I am confident the people of Davanagere will bless him with a massive majority of 40,000 to 50,000 votes,” Eshwar stated.
He highlighted the Congress government’s welfare schemes, including free rice, Arishina-Kumkuma, Indira Canteen kits, and the Yuva Nidhi stipend, as proof of its commitment to people with low incomes and minorities.
The MLA also listed steps taken by the government to honour the community, including the appointment of a Muslim Speaker and the election of an MLC from the community.
Eshwar assured minority leaders that the high command has promised to consider a minority candidate from Davanagere South in future elections.
Turning to the youth, the Congress leader cautioned against being swayed by social media campaigns in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Think beyond trolling and reels. What development has the BJP delivered in Karnataka? Our MPs are not even listening to people’s problems,” he said.
The death of six-time MLA Shamanur Shivashankarappa necessitated the Davanagere South by-poll. Samarth Shamanur filed his nomination papers on March 20 as both a Congress candidate and an Independent.
Eight candidates, including the BJP’s Srinivas T., have filed nominations for the seat.
Political observers note that the Congress faced significant internal resistance from minority leaders who had demanded a ticket for a candidate from their community.
Eshwar’s strong pitch appears aimed at consolidating minority votes behind the party’s official nominee.
The polling for the by-election is scheduled for April 9, with results expected on May 4.
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