Basavaraj Bommai, former Chief Minister of Karnataka and BJP contender for the Gadag-Haveri Lok Sabha constituency, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he has championed the ideas of Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Bommai addressed a meeting of the Maratha community, emphasising his close ties to the community and his upbringing in Maratha Galli, Hubballi.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an ardent Shivaji Maharaj disciple, is committed to carrying on his legacy," Bommai stated and added that the Maratha community, which is famed for its patriotism, must support Modi to progress the country`s growth, reported ANI.