Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Mar 29: The Mangalore constituency has long been a stronghold of the Congress party. Despite the BJP's numerous attempts to win the constituency by fielding various candidates in past elections, they have failed to do so. Regardless of caste or religion, voters in the constituency have consistently voted for UT Khader because of his secular approach, despite the BJP's attempts at polarization.

However, this time around, the BJP and RSS have decided to do everything in their power to win the constituency. The BJP's Vistaraks are working hard to mobilize public opinion and find a suitable candidate who can give UT Khader a run for his money.

Sources have indicated that Sathish Kumpala is one of the frontrunners for the BJP ticket. Kumpala, who hails from the RSS, completed his training at the Sangh's official training camp and has risen through the ranks to become a prominent youth leader for the BJP. He has worked tirelessly to bring the BJP to power in local body elections and has established good relationships with the leaders of the Sangh.

The strategy behind fielding Kumpala is to prevent Hindu votes from going to UT Khader, as Kumpala has maintained strong relationships with the Hindu community in the constituency. Kumpala is a member of the Billawa community, and the caste card is expected to play a significant role in the election. Kumpala's good rapport with the Sangh and BJP leaders, including state president Nalin Kumar Kateel, is also expected to work in his favor.

The BJP is confident that if SDPI (Social Democratic Party of India) fields Riyaz Farangipette, it will gain a few Muslim youths. If Farangipette gains a huge margin of votes. it will also affect the vote bank of U T Khader.

Top sources in the party on condition of anonymity informed that as of now, there is tough competition between Santhosh Kumar Rai Boliyar and Sathish Kumpala. 

Though there are several aspirants from the constituency including Chandrahas Uchil, Chandrahas Pandith is a major aspirant for the ticket from BJP.