BJP too echoes 'JP-JP' chorus in Udupi-Chikkamagalur: Cong leader Niketraj Maurya

Congress leader Niket Raj Maurya said that there is a notable shift in sentiment as both BJP supporters and workers are showing favor towards Jayaprakash Hegde in the Udupi Chikkamagalur constituency, transcending party lines.

He was speaking during a Congress convention near Shiruru Moorkai on Wednesday.

Maurya underscored the Congress party’s track record of fulfilling its electoral promises, citing the implementation of the five guarantees announced in the last election as a testament to their commitment to voters.

Addressing concerns about the agricultural sector, Maurya criticized the central government’s decision to simplify the areca nut import policy, which he argued would disproportionately benefit companies from Gujarat. He warned of potential repercussions for areca nut growers if Burmese areca nuts continue to flood the market at low prices.

In response to accusations from Kumaraswamy, Maurya defended the Congress guarantee as a commitment to the welfare of women, dismissing Kumaraswamy’s claims as baseless and suggesting a history of misleading actions on his part.

Amidst political accusations, Hegde’s leadership and contributions were lauded, with Maurya praising him as a unifying figure in Udupi District. Highlighting Hegde’s role in establishing the district and constructing connecting bridges during his tenure, Maurya emphasized the need to foster camaraderie across castes and religions, a task he believes only Hegde can accomplish.

A vehicle rally will be held in Hebri in support of Hegde, organized by Karkala Assembly Constituency Congress on April 19 at 3.30 pm.

The rally, expected to draw more than 500 vehicles with Hegde himself leading the procession. Various Congress leaders, including Minister K.J. George, are scheduled to attend, with Sudhir Kumar Muroli slated as the main speaker at the ensuing public gathering.