Mangaluru: As all political parties are gearing up for Vidhana Parishad election and the polls at the Zilla and Taluk Panchayats, MUDA Chairman Ibrahim Kodijal urged the public to alienate communal forces and vote for a secular party.

Calling SDPI as a communal outfit rather than a political party, Kodijal said that it must be treated on par with the BJP in spreading hatred and hence keep them away in order to eliminate intolerance and foster harmony among religions.

Giving a call to all individuals and forums to maintain a courteous tone during campaigning, Kodijal said while the constitution has provided the right to speech, one must ensure that they do not hurt religious sentiments of the masses.

Asked about the parameters on which the Congress party would field its candidates, Kodijal said that the party high command would take a decision on the Vidhana Sabha candidates whereas candidates at the local level would be fielded after discussions at the respective levels. Giving out a hint that experienced faces are likely to be in the fray, he said that individuals who have worked hard for the growth of the party will be preferred.

Congress party members Mithun Rai, Shashidhar Hegde, Mamatha and Padmanabha were present among others.