Sri Rama Sene founder Pramod Muthalik to contest as Independent candidate

Udupi: Sri Rama Sene founder Pramod Muthalik has announced his decision to contest as an independent candidate from Karkala constituency in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Karkala has a stronghold Hindutva base and is presently represented by Energy Minister and BJP MLA Sunil Kumar. Kumar won thrice from this constituency.

Muthalik cited dissatisfaction with the neglect of Hindutva ideology and corruption in the area as reasons for his decision to run. 

“During the survey conducted by our workers throughout the state, they found that the people here are saddened by the situation here. The workers who fought for Hindutva continue to fight murder cases and are still on the rowdy list and booked under the goonda act. The Hindutva ideology has been neglected here. The people who ensured the victory of the BJP here are saddened by the situation here. There is large-scale corruption here. Considering all these, our team wanted me to contest from Karkala,” Muthalik told reporters.

Muthalik said that he has been humiliated badly by the BJP.

“I was welcomed in the morning and by evening I was humiliated (a few years ago). They don’t remember that they came to power because of workers like us who dedicated our life to Hindutva. BJP leaders have welcomed corrupt people but they don’t want me. If they respect me then let them support me in this constituency by not fielding their candidate,” Muthalik said.

He clarified that his fight is not against the BJP.

“My fight is not against the BJP. It is in support of Modi, Yogi, and the BJP. Even after winning, I will support the BJP. My fight is against people who have neglected Hindutva and support corruption,” he added.

Muthalik asserted that he will not undo his decision.

“There is no reversing my decision. I will not heed any pressure and I cannot be lured,” he added.