Bypoll Will Be a Battle Between Poor and Rich, Congress Set to Lose: R. Ashoka

Bengaluru, April 2026 : Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R. Ashoka, on Tuesday asserted that the upcoming bye-elections in the state will be a decisive contest between the poor and the rich, expressing confidence that the Congress party will face defeat.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Ashoka said that constituencies such as Davanagere and Bagalkot are witnessing a clear ideological and social divide in the electoral battle. He remarked that while Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has called for empowering the poor, the BJP has translated that message into action by fielding candidates from economically weaker backgrounds.

Highlighting the party’s strategy, Ashoka pointed out that in Davanagere, the BJP has nominated the son of a porter belonging to an oppressed section, portraying it as a reflection of the party’s commitment to grassroots representation. In contrast, he alleged that Congress has fielded candidates who are influential and financially strong, creating a stark contrast in the nature of candidates.

Ashoka further claimed that there is growing dissatisfaction within minority communities, particularly Muslims, regarding the Congress party’s approach. He alleged that if the Congress candidate wins in Davanagere, opportunities for minorities may shrink, which, according to him, has led to discontent. He also criticised Minister Zameer Ahmad Khan, alleging that he has not actively campaigned in his constituency and is facing internal differences.

Taking aim at the state leadership, Ashoka accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of failing to adequately represent backward classes in ticket distribution, despite advocating for their unity. He argued that the Congress has instead promoted dynastic politics in both Davanagere and Bagalkot, whereas the BJP has focused on giving opportunities to ordinary individuals.

Ashoka also alleged instances of misconduct by Congress workers in Bagalkot, claiming that complaints of rowdyism have been filed. He further accused the state government of corruption and poor implementation of its flagship guarantee schemes, stating that these issues have contributed to a growing anti-incumbency sentiment.

Criticising the administration, Ashoka said governance in the state has weakened, with no significant development projects being undertaken. He alleged that internal conflicts between Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar over leadership ambitions are affecting governance and delaying progress.

He also claimed that the bye-election would serve as a referendum on the Congress government’s performance and provide voters with an opportunity to “teach the government a lesson.” According to him, rising unemployment has pushed youth onto the streets in protest, further indicating public dissatisfaction.

In a sharp remark, Ashoka criticised Siddaramaiah’s image, stating that while he seeks support from backward classes, his lifestyle reflects that of an elite leader. He also alleged that the state government has pushed Karnataka into significant debt and warned that development will remain stalled until leadership disputes are resolved.

Looking ahead, Ashoka said preparations are underway for the Greater Bengaluru Authority elections, with booth-level organisation and candidate selection in progress. He added that decisions regarding alliances, including with JD(S), will be taken by the party’s central leadership.

Reiterating confidence in the BJP’s prospects, Ashoka concluded that the party is well-positioned not only in Karnataka but also in states like Tamil Nadu and Assam, and expressed optimism about strong electoral outcomes in the coming contests.