Overwhelming support for Congress in Bagalkot: CM

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday said that the Congress party is receiving “more support than expected” in the Bagalkot Assembly by-election, expressing confidence in the victory of party candidate Umesh Meti.

Speaking to the media during his campaign in the constituency, the Chief Minister said the political atmosphere in both Bagalkot and other by-poll constituencies is favourable to the Congress. He highlighted the contributions of late H.Y. Meti, stating that he had worked tirelessly for the development of Bagalkot and was respected across communities.

“Late Meti was a simple and dedicated leader who worked for the upliftment of all sections of society. His son Umesh Meti, who is now the Congress candidate, carries forward that legacy. We are confident of his victory,” Siddaramaiah said.

He also noted that in the Davanagere South constituency, party leaders have convinced rebel candidate Sailwan Sadiq to withdraw from the contest. Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan is also expected to join the campaign, he added.

Responding to BJP’s criticism that his extensive campaigning reflects fear of defeat, Siddaramaiah dismissed the charge, stating that it is the BJP that is “worried about losing.” He reiterated that it is a long-standing Congress practice to offer tickets to family members of deceased leaders, which has been followed in both Bagalkot and Davanagere.

On remarks made by BJP leaders regarding the Chief Minister’s post, Siddaramaiah said he remains committed to the decisions of the party high command and declined to react further.

Criticising the previous BJP government, he alleged that Bagalkot did not witness significant development during its tenure.

“No priority was given to setting up a medical college or providing adequate compensation to farmers under the Krishna Upper Canal project. The contribution of H.Y. Meti to the region’s development remains unparalleled,” he said.