Karwar: Former Minister Anand Asnotikar, who joined the JD(S) has said that the ones contesting the polls must remain away from hate-based politics.

Taking a dig at the sitting MLA, while addressing a massive rally of the partyworkers in Karwar-Ankola, he said that he would not tolerate if someone resorts to threatening his party workers.

“I had lost last election with a margin of 36,000 votes and I had accepted the same. Over the last five years, I had faced several attacks on me from various quarters. Even BJP President did not spare me but I held on to my dignity and remained placid. I believe we must work with one another to bring change in the constituency and not resort to hatred, ” he said adding that the arrogant attitude of the sitting MLA has forced him to contest polls this time.

Meanwhile, JD(S) leader Madhu Bangarappa said that Minister Ananth Kumar Hegade must be condemned for his statement that the BJP is here to change the constitution.

“He has come to power swearing upon the very same constitution. The people of the region will teach him an apt lesson, ” he said.