Karnataka Assembly Polls: Triangular Fight of Political Hopes

In most assembly segments of Karnataka, it is a triangular contest. The ruling BJP is trying hard to remain in power for another straight term. Congress is betting on the anti-incumbency factor. The JDS, which has a say in over 61 seats, may become a major factor.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa was hopeful of BJP getting the support of 75%-80% voters. “We will win 130-135 seats,” the veteran BJP leader said. Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai said he is “very happy” with the way his party conducted its campaign and the way people have responded to it.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged people to vote in large numbers to build a progressive and a “40-per cent-commission-free” state. It was an extremely high-profile campaign for Karnataka assembly polls. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held 19 public meetings and six roadshows, and Congress’s Rahul Gandhi stayed in Karnataka for 12 days.

The ruling BJP is facing multiple corruption allegations in Karnataka. It has also tweaked the four per cent quota to Muslims in an aim to get the support of the Lingayat, Vokkaliga, Scheduled Caste, and Scheduled Tribe voters. The Supreme Court has stayed this state government order, directing that the Muslim reservation will continue for now. The matter will be heard next in July.

Several senior Lingayat leaders of the BJP, including former Chief Minister Jagdish Shettar joined the Congress. Division in the Lingayat vote will be a major factor in 90 to 100 seats.

Congress leaders, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and the party’s state unit chief DK Shivakumar, who are said to be having differences, preferred to work united during the election campaign process.

For the Janata Dal Secular of HD Kumaraswamy, this is a crucial election. The party, which was hoping to expand its base beyond Hassan and Mandya, is now trying to hold onto its traditional base in the Old Mysuru region.