BENGALURU, 21 APRIL

With just four days left for Lok Sabha elections in Bengaluru, the battle in BJP belt of Bengaluru Central is getting heated. Congress’ new candidate Mansoor Ali Khan got down on the battlefield on Sunday.

Mansoor was welcomed with flowers by his supporters at Shantinagar (Ward No. 117) at 4pm. Salar News captured the vibrant atmosphere in the constituency as Mansoor met the public amid chants of “ee bari Congress sarakara” (This time Congress will win). Mansoor was accompanied by BDA Chairman Nalapad Ahmed Haris and State youth Congress President Mohammed Nalapad.

Many of his supporters said they see Mansoor as a beacon of change. During the rally, attendees pointed out how incumbent BJP MP PC Mohan is barely seen in his constituency over the past 15 years.

Vijay, an auto driver from Austin Town, told Salar News that he was unhappy with Mohan’s lack of concern during the Covid pandemic. He recalled how he had to wait for ration for nearly two days. The crowd echoed Vijay’s sentiments. Many spoke about how Mansoor could contribute to healthcare and education sectors since he is an educationist for decades.

Simon, a first-time voter from Austin Town, fondly recalled how health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao and Harris provided crucial assistance to his family. Their unwavering support and constant contact left a lasting impression on him. Simon said he intends to support Mansoor. Simon says he recently discussed Mansoor’s background with his friends. “I checked Mansoor’s background and discovered his significant contribution to education. This revelation instilled hope in me, particularly regarding educational opportunities.”

Bengaluru Central was delineated from Assembly segments of Bengaluru South and Bengaluru North during the 2008 delimitation, with its inaugural election held in 2009. Since then, BJP has made Bengaluru Central its stronghold.

How has your campaign been so far?

Though the clock is ticking, I’m very positive that I will win Bengaluru Central. As an educationist, I have got positive response from the people. We have to wait for the big day.

As a new face, how are you introducing yourself and what was people’s reaction?

Initially, there was scepticism surrounding my candidacy, as people were unsure about my background and capabilities. However, I can be seen as a beacon of hope to improve civic conditions.

Congress lost thrice. What difference will you make?

The seat is competitive. However, going by people’s response to PC Mohan, there is hope that we will get the seat. If we look at 2023 Assembly results, we received more votes than BJP. -Salar News