Congress candidate from Bidar parliamentary constituency Eshwar Khandre, who is taking on BJP’s Bhagwant Khuba, is hopeful of wresting the seat, the saffron party’s citadel since 1998. Three-time Bhalki MLA, Khandre, has intensified his campaign, touring the segment extensively and seeking votes based on the works he had initiated in the district as a minister in the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government.
Gururaja B R of DH caught up with Eshwar Khandre in the middle of his campaign.
Why should people of the constituency vote for you?
The BJP MP has done nothing to the constituency in the past five years. He has failed to fulfil his promise of getting an FM radio station sanctioned to Bidar. Voters have realised that Congress is the only party which can stay true to their expectations. Hence, I am confident of winning the election hands down.
Modi wave is still working in BJP’s favour in the segment...
There is no Modi wave in the constituency. The ground reality is totally different. The farm sector is plagued by a plethora of problems and the demonetisation has ruined the lives of the businessmen and middle-class. People will teach a befitting lesson to the BJP, this time.
Bidar is at the forefront of the Lingayat movement. What to say about it?
I will not comment on it (separate religion campaign) as it is an emotional issue. Lingayat and Veerashaiva are the same. Those who perform Linga pooja are Lingayats and Veerashaivas. I don’t know why this issue is being raked up again.
What is your vision for the constituency?
As municipal administration minister in the previous Siddaramaiah government, I had granted funds for the development of the district.
A vast network of roads was laid. Villages bordering Maharashtra were developed. If elected, I will honestly work for the inclusive development of the district. Utmost priority will be given to the quality education, employment generation and addressing farmers’ woes.
There is a talk that Muslims are fed up with the Congress for not fielding candidate belonging to their community.
No. It is completely false. In fact, Muslims are happy after the party announced my candidature. The leaders and workers of both Congress and JD(S) parties are working for my victory. Three ministers - two from the Congress and one from JD(S) will ensure coalition candidate cross the line with a huge margin this time.