Bajrang Dal row: Congmen worried over impact?

Shyam Sundar Vattam I NT

Bengaluru: A section of Congress leaders are reportedly worried over the impact the party’s manifesto proposing a ban on the Bajrang Dal if the party is voted to power, will have on their poll prospects. Some of them fear that in a state where Lord Hanuman is deeply revered and worshipped, the manifesto proposal could trigger a backlash among devout Hindus.

The impact is likely to be more in constituencies where the rightwing organisation is strong like in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. These leaders feel that opinions should have been sought before including the proposal in the manifesto. The Congress burnt its fingers trying to divide the Lingayats/Veerashaivas by promising them separate religion status which led to a fall in the party tally from 120 seats in 2013 to 80 odd seats in 2018.

Sources say the BJP and right-wng outfits are sure to make this an election plank and a campaign issue across the state. A few leaders also referred to the fact that the state government does not have the power to ban any organisation as it is a central subject. The ban can be imposed only after evidence is submitted to the Union Home Ministry. Sources say the Congress is in a Catch-22 situation as it cannot withdraw the proposal now as it would impact its minority vote bank.