Daijwiorld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Sep 26: MLC Manjunath Bhandary strongly criticized the BJP for demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with the MUDA case, stating that the party lacks the moral authority to do so. He emphasized that the Congress stands firmly with the Chief Minister and will fight the accusations legally.

Addressing a press meet in the city on Thursday, September 26, Bhandary accused the BJP of attempting to destabilize the Congress government since it came to power in Karnataka. He pointed out the double standards, recalling that former CM B S Yediyurappa did not resign immediately after facing a prosecution order and an FIR, but only stepped down after the investigation proved the charges. "Is there one standard of justice for them and another for us?" Bhandary asked.

He further criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his remarks about Karnataka during election speeches, accusing the BJP of misusing elections for political gain. Bhandary also urged for an investigation into the allegations against HD Kumaraswamy, questioning the BJP's selective approach.

Shifting focus to the upcoming local body by-elections, Bhandary revealed that six Congress candidates have been finalized, with a candidate from the Udupi region being considered this time. Prominent names include Raju Poojary, Bhujang Shetty, and TR Raju from Karkala, alongside five other contenders. The MLC stressed that the state president has directed the team to take the elections seriously, viewing them as a foundation for future electoral success.

The Congress is fully prepared to face the by-elections in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, Bhandary concluded.