Karnataka Congress Minority Leaders Assert Confidence in Bye-Election Wins, Counter Opposition Misinformation
Synopsis
Karnataka Congress minority leaders are optimistic about winning the Bagalkot and Davanagere bye-elections, citing internal surveys and public backing. They refute the Opposition's claims and emphasize the importance of minority support in their campaign.
Key Takeaways
Confidence in Victory: Congress leaders believe in securing a decisive win in the bye-elections.
Community Support: Strong backing from minority communities is crucial for their campaign.
Countering Misinformation: Leaders are actively addressing false narratives spread by the Opposition.
Importance of Development: Past development work is seen as a significant factor in their success.
Unity Among Leaders: Internal cooperation is essential for the party's effectiveness.
Bengaluru, April 10 (NationPress) Leaders of the Karnataka Congress from the minority community conveyed their strong belief on Friday that the party will achieve a significant victory in the upcoming bye-elections for Bagalkot and Davanagere. This confidence is backed by results from internal surveys and widespread public support across various communities.
Notable figures at the press conference included MLAs Rizwan Arshad, Yasir Khan Pathan, Balkis Banu, KPCC Vice President Syed Ahmad, senior Congress leader Ubedullah Sharif, KPCC Secretary Agha Sultan, Makandar, and Chand Pasha.
During a joint press briefing at the KPCC office in Bengaluru, the Chief Whip and Legislative Council member Saleem Ahmad stated that the party's internal reviews suggest a clear path to victory with a considerable vote share.
He emphasized that the development initiatives by the late Shamanur Shivashankarappa in the Davanagere South constituency would significantly contribute to the party’s success.
Ahmad accused the Opposition of disseminating false information regarding the Congress government's guarantee schemes, stating that voters, especially from minority backgrounds, continue to show support for the party. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the Congress leadership to party workers, leaders, and voters.
He also noted that despite some senior leaders' attempts to undermine the party's prospects, minority voters have remained loyal to Congress. Ahmad assured that the leadership, including the AICC and KPCC presidents and the Chief Minister, are informed about the situation.
He mentioned that candidate selection involved consultations with minority leaders, although misunderstandings did occur later.
MLA Rizwan Arshad reported that individuals from all backgrounds and religions have rallied behind the Congress candidate in the Davanagere bye-election. He accused the BJP and SDPI of propagating false narratives on social media, claiming that minorities were overlooked during ticket distribution.
Arshad acknowledged the request from minority leaders for a community representative as a candidate, and that the party had tentatively agreed. However, he pointed out the lack of consensus on a single candidate. He mentioned that MLC Abdul Jabbar had positioned himself as a contender, but grassroots feedback raised concerns about his viability.
He admitted that insisting on one name without proposing alternatives led to setbacks. 'We should have presented multiple names or coordinated more effectively with senior leaders. This oversight impacted us,' he remarked.
Arshad dismissed social media claims labeling minority leaders as 'traitors,' affirming that all leaders had internally agreed to support the party and had actively campaigned in Davanagere upon receiving their responsibilities.
He accused the BJP and RSS of promoting divisive politics against minorities, asserting that Congress is the sole party countering these efforts. 'The notion that Congress has betrayed minorities is politically driven and inaccurate,' he stated.
He warned that a BJP win in Davanagere could disrupt the region's communal harmony. He reiterated that Congress has campaigned to uphold secular values and dismissed the Opposition’s allegations as unfounded.
Point of View
The Karnataka Congress appears to be rallying substantial support from minority communities ahead of the bye-elections. Despite facing opposition challenges and internal dynamics, their focus on development and community outreach will be pivotal in determining the election outcome.
NationPress
8 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key constituencies in the Karnataka bye-elections?
The key constituencies in the Karnataka bye-elections are Bagalkot and Davanagere.
How confident are Congress leaders about their victory?
Congress leaders express strong confidence in their potential victory, backed by internal survey results and public support.
What issues are Congress leaders addressing?
Congress leaders are addressing misinformation spread by opposition parties regarding government schemes and ticket distribution.
Who are the notable Congress leaders at the press conference?
Notable leaders include MLAs Rizwan Arshad, Yasir Khan Pathan, and KPCC Vice President Syed Ahmad.
What impact could a BJP victory have?
A BJP victory could potentially disturb communal harmony in the region, according to Congress leaders.
