Wed Sep 17 16:23:09 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Congress spokesperson M. Lakshman accuses the BJP, particularly former MP Pratap Simha, of stirring up communal tension in Mysuru ahead of the Dasara festival. He specifically criticizes their constant objections to the selection of author Banu Mushtaq as the Dasara inaugurator and calls for Simha to be barred from Mysuru until the festival’s conclusion to ensure peaceful celebrations. He also notes that the High Court dismissed Simha’s petition about the matter.

**News Article:**

**Congress Accuses BJP of Fueling Communal Tension Ahead of Mysuru Dasara Festival**

**MYSURU, Sept. 17, 2025** – The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of deliberately stirring up communal unrest in Mysuru in the lead-up to the annual Dasara festival.

Speaking at a press conference today, Congress spokesperson M. Lakshman specifically targeted former BJP MP Pratap Simha, alleging he has been consistently criticizing the selection of author Banu Mushtaq as the inaugurator of the prestigious festival to incite communal disharmony.

“Mr. Simha’s persistent attacks on the selection of Ms. Mushtaq are designed to spew venom into our society,” Lakshman stated. “For the festival to proceed smoothly and peacefully, it is imperative that Mr. Simha be banished from Mysuru district until the conclusion of Dasara on October 2nd.”

Lakshman further highlighted that the High Court of Karnataka had already dismissed Simha’s petition related to the issue, implying the former MP should respect the court’s decision.

The Congress spokesperson urged authorities to take decisive action against BJP leaders he claims are deliberately exacerbating tensions in the region. The accusation comes as the city prepares for the highly anticipated Dasara celebrations, a major cultural event in Karnataka.

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