Bidar: KPCC working president Eshwar Khandre has made it clear that he will never use religion for the sake of votes and political benefits.
Speaking to reporters, Khandre, who was a minister in the previous Congress-led government, said that he is seeking votes by relying on the development.
Khandre, who was against granting a minority religion tag to the Lingayat community, stated that his position on the issue will not damage his chances of victory. “For me, all are the same and equal. I am seeking votes in the name of development. It is the BJP who is spreading rumours,” he said.
He also stated that he is confident of an easy victory. “Minority leaders are given due political representation. All communities are with me,” he said.
His statements have gained a lot of importance as he has opposed his own government’s decision to recommend a minority religion status to the Lingayat community. He was a staunch supporter of the argument that the Veerashaivas and Lingayats are one and the same.
