The Congress, which had earlier named Basavaraj Gurikar as the party candidate from the Karnataka West Teachers’ Constituency for the Legislative Council pols, has now decided to field chairman of the Karnataka State Forest Industries Corporation T. Ishwar. Speaking to presspersons here on Friday, Mr. Ishwar said that the party had finalised his candidature recognising his services to teachers and his contribution to the field of education. He said that it was teachers who prevailed upon the Chief Minister to get his candidature finalised for the polls.
‘Personal gain’
Mr. Ishwar said that as Basavaraj Horatti, who represented the constituency for six terms, used the post only for his personal growth, the teachers had now decided to bring about a change. Mr. Ishwar had unsuccessfully contested the previous Council election on Congress ticket.
Reluctant
Mr. Ishwar said, “Mr. Gurikar was reluctant to contest the election as he knew the support I enjoyed in the constituency and he too has supported my candidature. I will release my manifesto in a fortnight.”
Congress Rural District Unit President H.V. Madalli was present.
