UP-Karnataka closely related, says Yogi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has invoked "ancient relations" between Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh while seeking votes for the BJP in the May 12 Assembly elections.

"Karnataka and Uttara Pradesh have close relations. While Lord Rama took birth in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka is the birthplace of Hanuman. Bhyraveshwara of Kashi is Kalabhyraveshwara in Adichunchanagiri. And now you have BJP government in Uttar Pradesh and hence Karnataka too should be governed by the same party," Adityanath said here on Tuesday. He was addressing an election rally in Kumta on Tuesday.

Adityanath said that the schemes of the Modi government could reach people if the government of the same party is brought to power in Karnataka also.

Addressing an election meet in Murdeshwar, Bhatkal taluk, Yogi alleged that the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government had got killed many Hindu activists by entering into a secret pact with jihadi elements.

He said that terrorists were holed up across the country including Bhatkal. The Murdeshwara temple visited by thousands of devotees every day faces threat from ultras. "We have to wipe off the blot on Bhatkal and to do so voters should teach a befitting lesson to jihadis and anti-nationals in this election," he added.

Earlier, the UP chief minister performed Rudrabhisheka at the Murdeshwara temple.

During his speech at Maravanthe in Udupi district, Yogi said that the pathetic plight of farmers, fishermen and youth in Karnataka had prompted him visit Karnataka time and again. He was reacting to the comment of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over Yogi's frequent visit to the state.