The constituency, which has around 1.7 lakh voters is considered as a Congress stronghold, thanks to nearly 50 per cent of minority vote bank.
It is learnt that the BJP too had thought of fielding a Muslim candidate in Muslim dominated Mangalore constituency before finalising Chandrahas Ullal's name. However, in a favourable atmosphere for the saffron party, besides U T Khader, three new Muslim candidates have entered poll fray in Mangalore, who are all going to break and divide secular votes, especially Muslim votes.
While the SDPI and Muslim League have fielded Akram Hasan and Riyaz Harekala respectively, activist Kabeer Ullal has formally announced his candidature on Friday. He is expected to file nomination papers on Monday.
Ironically, all three above Muslim candidates have vented their anger against incumbent Congress MLA U T Khader instead of targeting BJP, which is known for its Hindutva approach in coastal Karnataka. Mr Khader had defeated two BJP candidates in last two elections.
In a press meet on Friday Kabeer Ullal said that he (Kabeer) had been active in social work and had helped people in times of need besides taking on the police and being fighting for the cause of victims of torture and violence without any fear, which is why he enjoys public trust.
Meanwhile, CPI (M) also has decided to field Krishnappa Salian as its candidate from Mangalore constituency, who is also expected to pocket a considerable number of secular votes.
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