BJP’s false propaganda did not work in by-elections: MLC B K Hariprasad

BJP’s false propaganda did not work in by-elections: MLC B K Hariprasad

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Nov 24, 2024: Senior Congress leader and MLC B K Hariprasad on Sunday lauded Karnataka voters for rejecting the "money power" of the BJP-JD(S) coalition in the recently concluded by-elections for three assembly constituencies. Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru, Hariprasad attributed the Congress victory to the party’s five guarantees and its commitment to peace and good governance.

“The BJP’s false propaganda over waqf properties had no impact on the by-election results. They even misused central agencies like IT, ED, and CBI to try and defeat the Congress. But their tactics failed, and the voters have delivered a clear mandate in favor of the Congress,” Hariprasad said.

Victory Boosts Congress Government Image
Responding to a question on whether the by-election results bolster Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s leadership, Hariprasad said, “The election outcome has reaffirmed the government’s popularity, as stated by the Chief Minister himself. The state government’s implementation of guarantee schemes and focus on social security have resonated with the people.”

He further emphasized that communal harmony has been a priority since the Congress came to power. “We have controlled communal riots and ensured that Karnataka remains ‘Sarva Janangada Shanthiya Thota’ (a peaceful garden of all communities),” he said.

Criticism of BJP’s Election Strategies
Hariprasad criticized the BJP for relying on rhetoric and monetary influence in elections. He pointed out that similar tactics had failed in Jharkhand, where the INDIA alliance secured a decisive victory despite BJP’s focus on issues like “infiltration” in the Santhal Pargana region. He also alleged that money power contributed to the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in Maharashtra.

On dynasty politics, Hariprasad accused the BJP of hypocrisy. “The BJP itself is the biggest example of dynasty politics, with some families having multiple elected representatives. Democracy allows the people to choose their representatives, regardless of family background,” he asserted.

Cabinet Reshuffle and Leadership Decisions
Commenting on the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka, Hariprasad said the decision lies with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Congress high command, and the KPCC. When asked about the potential reinstatement of B Nagendra to the cabinet, he stated, “It is the Chief Minister’s prerogative to decide in consultation with AICC and KPCC leadership.”

Hariprasad concluded by emphasizing the Congress’s faith in “people’s power” over financial influence, asserting that the by-election results serve as a lesson to the opposition’s divisive and misleading tactics.