Bengaluru, April 7 (NationPress) R. Ashoka, a prominent leader of the BJP and the opposition figure in the Karnataka Assembly, has asserted that the upcoming bye-election will feature a battle of the poor against the rich, predicting a loss for the Congress party.

During a press briefing in Bengaluru, Ashoka remarked that the election in Davanagere and Bagalkot symbolizes a conflict between the affluent and the underprivileged. He emphasized that since Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated, “Make the poor win,” the BJP has nominated candidates from impoverished backgrounds. Notably, the BJP has selected a candidate from Davanagere who is the son of a porter, reflecting their commitment to representing the oppressed classes.

Ashoka further elaborated, “If the Congress candidate wins in Davanagere, it will indicate that Muslims will face limited opportunities in the future, leading to their opposition against the Congress party. Minister Zameer Ahmad Khan has avoided campaigning in his constituency, revealing internal discord.”

He criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, claiming that despite his calls for unity among backward classes, he has not allocated even a single ticket to candidates from these communities.

In contrast to Congress, which has nominated powerful figures, the BJP has chosen an ordinary individual in Davanagere. The sentiment surrounding the BJP candidate in Bagalkot is also positive, as Congress continues to favor dynastic politics in both constituencies. Therefore, Ashoka believes the BJP has a strong chance of securing victories in both areas.

He accused Congress leaders of engaging in rowdy behavior in Bagalkot, which has led to a formal complaint. The government's corruption and ineffective implementation of guarantee schemes have sparked an anti-incumbency sentiment. Following the budget presentation, the government is now imposing taxes on various sectors, he claimed.

According to Ashoka, the state administration has deteriorated, with development projects stalled. The ongoing rivalry between Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar and CM Siddaramaiah for the Chief Ministerial position is indicative of this chaos. He added that Siddaramaiah's return to power is rooted in his lack of confidence in winning the Kerala Assembly election. This bye-election will unveil the true nature of the Congress party, which he accused of attempting to manipulate minorities as a vote bank.

Ashoka emphasized that this bye-election represents a pivotal moment to remove the Congress government and will influence the future. He noted that young people are protesting due to job shortages, creating a visible anti-government wave. He asserted that this is a critical opportunity for the public to hold the government accountable.

“Siddaramaiah is no longer seen as a representative of the backward classes. His lifestyle reflects that of a forward-class individual, yet he seeks votes from the backward classes, making him a ‘forward leader’ among them,” Ashoka criticized.

He dismissed the notion that Deputy CM Shivakumar would permanently hold the Chief Minister’s chair, claiming that their policies have plunged the state into significant debt. Until the infighting for leadership ceases, no real development will occur.

Preparations for the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) are underway, with booth committees and candidate selection processes in motion. Central leaders will ultimately determine any potential alliance with JD (S). The BJP is wary that if Siddaramaiah remains in power, winning the GBA election will be challenging. He noted that the BJP plans to mount a formidable challenge in Tamil Nadu and is well-positioned in Assam. Ashoka concluded by alleging that should the BJP win this election, Congress would once again claim issues with EVMs, labeling the party as rife with corruption and scandals.