JD(S) leader accuses Cong of neglecting Hindus in coastal Karnataka; U T Khader hits back

Mangaluru, Aug 5: Janata Dal (Secular) leader S L Bhoje Gowda has sparked row by accusing the Congress party of ignoring Hindus in coastal Karnataka.

Speaking to media persons in the city, the MLC said that his party, under the leadership of chief minister H D Kumaraswamy, will not lose the trust of Hindus by following the path of Congress.

According to Mr Gowda, the main reason behind Congress’ debacle in coastal districts of Karnataka in 2018 assembly polls is neglecting Hindus. U T Khader was the only Congress candidate to win in 13 assembly seats of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts whereas BJP won remaining 12 seats. 

Mr Gowda urged the Congress to introspect on why the majority community members voted for BJP in large numbers this time though they had dumped the saffron party in 2013 Karnataka assembly polls.

Stating that polarization of Hindu votes resulted in BJP emerging as a single largest party in the state, he said that various developments occurred during the five years of Congress rule under the leadership of then chief minister Siddaramaiah are responsible for such polarization.

“Hence we will not commit such mistakes. The JD(S) leaders have been asked to give priority to Hindus along with minority communities,” he said. 

U T Khader’s response

The unexpected remarks of JD(S) leader has evoked strong response from Congress leader and Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister U T Khader, who advised Mr Gowda to be cautious while talking about the coalition partner.

Mr Khader, who holds urban development and housing portfolios in H D Kumaraswamy-led JD(S)-Congress coalition government, said that Mr Gowda’s “irresponsible statement” would harm his own party.

“The allegation made against Congress that it sidelined Hindus is baseless. Congress is the enemy of communalism. It treats all communities equally and all communities vote for Congress,” he said adding that he would discuss the issue with senior leaders of his party.