Teerthahalli
MLA Araga Gyanendra, who secured his last election victory through substantial financial resources, has been accused of introducing a divisive form of politics in Teerthahalli. Former MLA Kimmane Ratnakar expressed confidence in his ability to win the upcoming election, regardless of Gyanendra’s tactics. During a press conference in the town, Ratnakar emphasized that several critical issues would play a crucial role in determining the election outcome. He reminded that differing political views should not label anyone as a ‘loser.’ Ratnakar also raised questions about Gyanendra’s election history, particularly the allegations of using money in elections and calling Congress members corrupt. In the previous election, a gram panchayat member was reportedly enticed with ₹2 lakh. Ratnakar stressed the importance of understanding how the BJP party’s funds, which were ₹5,000 crore, doubled to ₹10,000 crore in just five years. He also noted that even at Viswanathan’s condolence meeting, some MLAs held onto animosity, with R.M. Manjunath Gowda and H.N. Vijaydev openly criticizing others. Ratnakar mentioned discrepancies in the distribution of relief funds, such as ₹10 crore announced by the Home Minister for cholera disease relief that reportedly never arrived. On a more positive note, he highlighted the successful efforts of Sagar MLA in securing ₹19 lakh in compensation money. Ratnakar cited the example of Kantaraj of Heddur, who, despite not being from his political party, managed to avoid receiving ₹4.61 thousand in compensation related to his mother Savithamma’s heart treatment. He considered this a model against Gyanendra’s divisive style of politics and suggested moving away from the politics of hatred. The press conference also included Kestur Manjunath, PAP President Geeta Ramesh, Vice President Rahmat Ullah Asadi, D.S. Vishwanath Shetty, Amarnath Shetty, William Martis, and Paduvalli Hasendra.
