Belagavi’s newly elected MP, Jagdish Shettar, held his first press conference today following his recent Lok Sabha election victory. Shettar expressed gratitude towards those who indirectly supported his campaign, attributing his win to four key factors.
“When March 27 arrived, the people of Belagavi displayed an unprecedented welcome. During the submission of nomination papers on April 17, the turnout was significant. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s massive rally in Belagavi and the 16 years of service by Suresh Angadi were game changers for me,” Shettar stated.
Shettar remarked that the Lok Sabha elections centered on nationalism and national leadership. He criticized Congress leaders for their over-reliance on guarantee schemes, noting internal opposition within the Congress party.
“Congress leaders were under the delusion that they would win with the implementation of guarantee schemes. Now, Congress MLAs are opposing these schemes, and there is internal opposition to the guarantees. CM Siddaramaiah may yield to the pressure and halt these schemes,” Shettar commented.
Shettar also addressed the issue of dissent within the Belagavi Congress. He emphasized that internal conflict within the Congress is ongoing.
Expressing his appreciation for the support from Belagavi’s citizens, Shettar said, “The people of Belagavi elected me, and I thank you all for this wonderful support. This victory belongs to the people.”
On the national stage, Shettar acknowledged Narendra Modi’s re-election for a third term as Prime Minister, demonstrating strong public trust.
Outlining his plans for Belagavi’s progress and welfare, Shettar sought cooperation from all and acknowledged the challenges ahead. He gave special thanks to voters in various constituencies, particularly mentioning MLA Abhay Patil’s support in Belagavi South, where he led by 73,000 votes. He also thanked Ramesh Jarakiholi and Balachandra Jarakiholi for their support in Gokaka and Arabavi.
Despite a narrower margin in Savadatti, Shettar extended his gratitude to the voters, appreciating their support even with a 16,000-vote margin against the Congress.