Top Karnataka BJP Leader Who Was Denied Ticket For Upcoming Election Gets Call From The Prime Minister

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader K S Eshwarappa, who was denied a ticket for the upcoming Karnataka assembly election, received a call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (21 April).

Modi lauded Eshwarappa, a five-time member of legislative assembly (MLA) from Shivamogga, for accepting his party's verdict and expressed gratitude for his loyalty and commitment.

"It feels great that a leader like you is calling an ordinary worker like me," Eshwarappa told the Prime Minister, as heard in a video shared by the politician.

"What you and Yediyurappa have done for the party is commendable," Modi is heard saying.

Eshwarappa had wished to contest a sixth time, but was dropped from the party's list of candidates announced earlier this week.

What's more, even his son K E Kantesh was denied a ticket.

He, however, promised Modi on call that he would support Channabasappa, the ruling party's local leader in Shivamogga City Corporation, during the election campaign.

"I will do everything possible to ensure that the BJP wins in Karnataka," the former minister said.

Later, speaking to reporters, he said, "I had never dreamt that Modi ji would call me. His gesture is an inspiration."

Karnataka will vote on 10 May, with results coming out on 13 May.

This time, the BJP has introduced some young leaders and new faces while abandoning incumbents and veterans amid public dissatisfaction in certain regions.

Some have rebelled against the party in return, and chosen to join a rival party or contest as an independent.