Bagalkot, March 30 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, campaigned vigorously in the Bagalkot Assembly constituency on Monday for the ongoing by-election, rallying support for Congress candidate Umesh Meti. He urged the electorate to vote for Congress in this critical bypoll.

The outcome of this bypoll holds significant importance for CM Siddaramaiah. He toured Sutar Gunda, Rampura, Bevura, and Nayanegali villages, encouraging residents to back Umesh Meti. Ministers R.B. Timmapur, Byrathi Suresh, and Shivanand Patil, alongside party MLAs and leaders, joined him during the campaign. Villagers welcomed the Chief Minister with a delightful shower of flowers upon his arrival.

During his campaign, Siddaramaiah urged voters to support Umesh Meti, highlighting that this would ensure the soul of the late H.Y. Meti, the former representative of the seat, could finally rest in peace. He credited Meti with the establishment of a medical college in Bagalkot, a testament to his dedication.

While addressing gatherings in Sutagundar, Nayanegali, and surrounding areas, Siddaramaiah mentioned that all four children of H.Y. Meti had vied for the party ticket. He reassured that regardless of who was chosen, the family would unite in support. “In keeping with Congress tradition, we have awarded the ticket to Umesh Meti. Therefore, I urge everyone to support him and ensure his success,” he stated.

Siddaramaiah criticized the BJP-led central government for its perceived anti-people stance regarding the Almatti issue, pointing out that no gazette notification had been issued even after 13 years. He noted that despite commitments made during their four years in power, the BJP had failed to disburse promised funds.

He announced that his government would provide compensation of Rs 40 lakh per acre for irrigated lands and Rs 30 lakh for dry lands, assuring that payments would be finalized within three years.

He accused the previous BJP administrations under B.S. Yediyurappa and Basavaraj Bommai of engaging in “loot” rather than facilitating genuine development.

Siddaramaiah stated that the foundation stone for the medical college in Bagalkot had been laid due to the persistent efforts of late H.Y. Meti. He also pledged to establish a super-speciality hospital and a trauma center, emphasizing that his government keeps its promises.

The Chief Minister criticized the BJP for failing to fulfill its commitments, including not waiving any farmers' loans. He highlighted that his government had introduced five guarantees to assist those impacted during the Covid pandemic.

When the Centre did not provide the requested support price for sugarcane, he convened discussions with farmer organizations and sugar factory owners, resulting in an additional Rs 200 increase. He lauded late H.Y. Meti as a leader who was accessible to the community and responsive to the needs of marginalized groups. He questioned the BJP's ethical standing in seeking votes while allegedly spreading misinformation regarding the government's guarantees.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that his government was channeling Rs 52,000 crore annually into the public's hands while simultaneously executing various development projects.

He metaphorically stated that just as a hardworking bull is rewarded with fodder, those who contribute should also receive their due. He reiterated his call for the election of Congress candidate Umesh Meti, asserting that it was essential for the peace of H.Y. Meti’s soul.