A Lingayat seer is challenging Union Minister Pralhad Joshi for the Dharwad seat, threatening to run as an independent if the BJP doesn't replace Joshi by March 31. Dingaleshwara Swami, from Fakireshwara Mutt, has the Lingayat community's support. Joshi, a Brahmin, has been warned for neglecting Lingayats. Despite the challenge, Joshi remains confident of winning with Lingayat support. The BJP has until April 2 to respond to the seer's demands, or he may enter the race.