The decision by Penguin Random House India not to publish Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s memoir in India has triggered a fresh political confrontation between the BJP and Congress. While Congress leaders have alleged that pressure from the government led to the publisher seeking changes in the book, the BJP has rejected the claims and questioned both the circumstances surrounding the publication decision and the contents of the memoir. The controversy reportedly centres on references to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s ideological organisation, and Chinese intrusions. According to an earlier report published by Hindustan Times, Gandhi declined to make changes or delete references to these subjects.<h2>BJP questions memoir controversy</h2>BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi questioned whether the work should be viewed purely as a memoir or whether its contents would require further scrutiny by the publisher. “Whether the book written by Sonia Gandhi is a memoir or fiction is a matter to be decided between the author and the publisher. If a work labelled as a memoir turns out to be fiction, the publisher will certainly assess that before making a decision. I feel that if you attempt to politicise a work presented as a memoir, questions will inevitably be raised.”&nbsp;BJP National Spokesperson CR Kesavan also hit out at Congress leaders for alleging that a climate of fear was responsible for the developments surrounding Gandhi’s memoir. “The attempts by Congress leaders to spin stories and manufacture a false narrative of fear over the release of Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s memoir are not merely ironic, they are glaringly hypocritical.” Kesavan referred to the 2014 autobiography One Life Is Not Enough by former Union minister K Natwar Singh. He claimed that excerpts from the book showed that the Nehru-Gandhi family had concerns about Singh’s account of events surrounding May 2004, before the UPA government was formed.&nbsp;Citing the episode, Kesavan said, “Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra decided to meet him before his book release to discuss it, this sudden visit coming after eight and a half years! Why was Sonia Gandhi so apprehensive about what Shri. Natwar Singh would write in his book?” Drawing a comparison with the current controversy surrounding Gandhi’s memoir, Kesavan questioned the nature of the fact-checking reportedly sought by the publisher.&nbsp;“The moot point in the context of Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s memoirs is: which portions of her memoir warranted fact-checking and why so?” Kesavan also raised the issue of archival material linked to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. “For Congress leaders who are farcically saying that some are afraid of the memoirs contents, they should explain to the nation the real reason why the Congress first family is nervous and jittery to make public the 51 carton boxes of Nehru’s correspondence, which include his letters to Edwina Mountbatten.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-terrifying-video-shows-floodwaters-ripping-through-tibet-s-gyirong-port-yet-footage-remains-missing-from-china-s-social-media-1787969029719">Watch | Terrifying video shows floodwaters ripping through Tibet's Gyirong Port, yet footage remains missing from China's social media</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The attempts by Congress leaders to spin stories and manufacture a false narrative of fear over the release of Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s memoir are not merely ironic — they are glaringly hypocritical. Excerpts from the late Shri. K. Natwar Singh’s 2014 autobiography ‘One Life Is Not… <a href="https://t.co/Jye8sbjXde">pic.twitter.com/Jye8sbjXde</a>&mdash; C.R.Kesavan (@crkesavan) <a href="https://x.com/crkesavan/status/2093504286701584555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Congress alleges pressure on Penguin India</h2>Congress leaders, meanwhile, have accused the BJP-led government of creating pressure around the publication of the memoir.Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi questioned why Penguin India was willing to publish books such as Exam Warriors and works related to the RSS but, according to him, was unwilling to publish Gandhi’s memoir in its original form. “Penguin India is more than happy to publish ‘Exam Warriors’ and several books on RSS. No doubt there are those in the BJP government who have now become afraid of a book being being read by the people of India.”&nbsp;Congress MP Dr Akhilesh Prasad Singh said the issue demonstrated that publishers should not be in a position to dictate what an author can or cannot include in a book. “It is clear that no publisher, whether Penguin or anyone else, can influence an author or pressure them to remove or include specific content. That is evident, and perhaps that is why Sonia Gandhi declined as well. We all understand the reason behind this.”&nbsp;He also linked the controversy to the earlier dispute surrounding a book by former Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane.“During the previous session of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, Rahul Gandhi himself raised the issue regarding Naravane’s book, which was effectively being suppressed, prevented from being read, by the government; it is likely the same kind of pressure at play here. That is why this is happening.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Such a weak statement. Penguin India is more than happy to publish “Exam Warriors” and several books on RSS. No doubt there are those in the BJP government who have now become afraid of a book being being read by the people of India. <a href="https://t.co/JvmXD8FZV6">https://t.co/JvmXD8FZV6</a>&mdash; Gaurav Gogoi (@GauravGogoiAsm) <a href="https://x.com/GauravGogoiAsm/status/2093263860535074881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Former Rajasthan chief minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot also alleged that Penguin Worldwide was prepared to publish the memoir in its original form outside India, while the Indian arm had sought changes. “Penguin Worldwide is ready to publish Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji's upcoming book worldwide in its original form, but Penguin Random House India wants changes made to launch it in India. After all, what is the reason or what pressure is there that what is being published across the world cannot be published in India?”&nbsp;Gehlot praised Gandhi’s political career and described her public life as one marked by sacrifice and dedication. “Sonia Gandhi’s life was “an example of sacrifice and dedication” and that “the integrity and dignity with which she has served the country is exemplary.” He further alleged that preventing publication of the memoir in its original form would amount to an attack on freedom of expression.&nbsp;“Suppressing the book of Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji, a person of such stature, a senior leader of the nation, and former Leader of the Opposition, under pressure is tantamount to the murder of freedom of expression.” Gehlot specifically alleged that references concerning Modi, the RSS and Chinese occupation of Indian territory during the Modi government were the portions that faced pressure for removal. “The real issue is that pressure was put on Penguin India to remove the portions related to Modi, the RSS, and the occupation of Indian territory by China during Modi's rule. This is the murder of democracy,” Gehlot alleged.&nbsp;He also questioned whether the government had attempted to influence the historical and political facts discussed in the memoir. “Why is this truth being hidden from the people of India? Will the Modi government alter even the facts by pressuring publishers?” he asked. The controversy has consequently turned Sonia Gandhi’s unpublished memoir into another flashpoint in the ongoing political battle between the BJP and Congress, with both parties presenting sharply contrasting accounts of why the book has not been published in India.

Sonia Gandhi’s memoir sparks a BJP-Congress slugfest as Congress alleges pressure on Penguin India, while BJP questions the book’s content and claims

The decision by Penguin Random House India not to publish Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s memoir in India has triggered a fresh political confrontation between the BJP and Congress. While Congress leaders have alleged that pressure from the government led to the publisher seeking changes in the book, the BJP has rejected the claims and questioned both the circumstances surrounding the publication decision and the contents of the memoir. The controversy reportedly centres on references to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s ideological organisation, and Chinese intrusions. According to an earlier report published by Hindustan Times, Gandhi declined to make changes or delete references to these subjects. BJP questions memoir controversy BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi questioned whether the work should be viewed purely as a memoir or whether its contents would require further scrutiny by the publisher. “Whether the book written by Sonia Gandhi is a memoir or fiction is a matter to be decided between the author and the publisher. If a work labelled as a memoir turns out to be fiction, the publisher will certainly assess that before making a decision. I feel that if you attempt to politicise a work presented as a memoir, questions will inevitably be raised.” BJP National Spokesperson CR Kesavan also hit out at Congress leaders for alleging that a climate of fear was responsible for the developments surrounding Gandhi’s memoir. “The attempts by Congress leaders to spin stories and manufacture a false narrative of fear over the release of Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s memoir are not merely ironic, they are glaringly hypocritical.” Kesavan referred to the 2014 autobiography One Life Is Not Enough by former Union minister K Natwar Singh. He claimed that excerpts from the book showed that the Nehru-Gandhi family had concerns about Singh’s account of events surrounding May 2004, before the UPA government was formed. Citing the episode, Kesavan said, “Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra decided to meet him before his book release to discuss it, this sudden visit coming after eight and a half years! Why was Sonia Gandhi so apprehensive about what Shri. Natwar Singh would write in his book?” Drawing a comparison with the current controversy surrounding Gandhi’s memoir, Kesavan questioned the nature of the fact-checking reportedly sought by the publisher. “The moot point in the context of Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s memoirs is: which portions of her memoir warranted fact-checking and why so?” Kesavan also raised the issue of archival material linked to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. “For Congress leaders who are farcically saying that some are afraid of the memoirs contents, they should explain to the nation the real reason why the Congress first family is nervous and jittery to make public the 51 carton boxes of Nehru’s correspondence, which include his letters to Edwina Mountbatten.” Also Read: Watch | Terrifying video shows floodwaters ripping through Tibet's Gyirong Port, yet footage remains missing from China's social media

Sonia Gandhi’s memoir row sparks a BJP-Congress clash, with Congress alleging pressure and BJP questioning the book’s content and publication

‘Pressure’ or 'editorial decision'? BJP, Congress face off over Sonia Gandhi's memoir

The political rivalry between the BJP and Congress has often revolved around which party can claim the upper hand. But lately, a lighter version of that competition appears to have extended to the fitness and adventurous activities of their leaders. The latest episode came after Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju shared videos of himself taking a plunge into the fast-flowing waters of Arunachal Pradesh. Taking a playful swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Rijiju suggested that Gandhi might need some training before attempting such an activity. "Mein yahan ka khiladi hun (I am the player here)," Rijiju said in a post on X.&nbsp;The exchange is the latest in a series of light-hearted interactions between the two political rivals over fitness and physical activities. Their friendly banter has included a conversation in Parliament last year and a jiu-jitsu challenge from Gandhi earlier this year. "Many people are saying that I'm also doing like Rahul Gandhi. Rahul ji may take training for such activities but it's normal routine in my life. I don't take training as these are child's play for me since childhood. My life is full of adventurous (adventures)," Rijiju wrote, posting a video of himself swimming in a river in Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;"Never go to deep water if you do not know swimming. Many people have drowned in the river. The rivers in Arunachal Pradesh are huge and very deep," he wrote. Rijiju later shared another video explaining why swimming in Arunachal Pradesh's turbulent rivers is significantly different from swimming in a pool or relatively calm water. "Some people might think swimming in gushing rivers of Arunachal Pradesh is like swimming in pools or rivers like Yamuna. In raging rivers, our head should be up, not down &amp; body should be more upright, not straight as we keep in swimming competition. Mein yahan ka khiladi hun," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-cause-for-panic-icmr-says-no-new-h1n1-strain-detected-urges-caution-for-high-risk-groups-1787489610563">‘No cause for panic’: ICMR says no new H1N1 strain detected, urges caution for high-risk groups</a><h2>Rahul Gandhi and Rijiju's fitness conversations</h2>In December last year, Rijiju shared a video on Instagram showing a conversation with Gandhi in Parliament. "Not talking politics, only fitness. I hope he will promote #FitIndiaMovement," the minister had said. According to an ANI report, Gandhi asked Rijiju about his exercise routine during the conversation and invited him to work out together. Their discussion also touched on martial arts, with Gandhi suggesting that the two could train together.<h2>How Rahul Gandhi stays fit at 56</h2>Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has frequently spoken about his interest in fitness and physical activities. Recently, he discussed his fitness routine during an Instagram Ask Me Anything session, where he answered questions from students and Gen Z users about his personal life and interests. “Students, Gen Z, ask me anything and I will reply to as many questions,” Gandhi wrote while inviting questions from his followers.&nbsp;When a follower asked, “Hey Rahul, what’s your fitness routine?”, Gandhi said that there is no single workout regimen that guarantees fitness. Instead, he stressed the importance of consistency. “The thing about fitness that is important is not really the routine you follow. It is being persistent, doing it continuously and allowing it to compound,” he said.&nbsp;Gandhi said his routine combines several forms of physical activity. “I like doing a little bit of martial arts, swimming and running,” he said. He also revealed that yoga has recently become an important part of his routine. Rather than exercising only when he has free time, Gandhi said he makes fitness a priority even amid a busy schedule.

Kiren Rijiju takes a playful swipe at Rahul Gandhi over river swimming in Arunachal Pradesh as their light-hearted fitness rivalry continues

The political rivalry between the BJP and Congress has often revolved around which party can claim the upper hand. But lately, a lighter version of that competition appears to have extended to the fitness and adventurous activities of their leaders. The latest episode came after Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju shared videos of himself taking a plunge into the fast-flowing waters of Arunachal Pradesh. Taking a playful swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Rijiju suggested that Gandhi might need some training before attempting such an activity. "Mein yahan ka khiladi hun (I am the player here)," Rijiju said in a post on X. The exchange is the latest in a series of light-hearted interactions between the two political rivals over fitness and physical activities. Their friendly banter has included a conversation in Parliament last year and a jiu-jitsu challenge from Gandhi earlier this year. "Many people are saying that I'm also doing like Rahul Gandhi. Rahul ji may take training for such activities but it's normal routine in my life. I don't take training as these are child's play for me since childhood. My life is full of adventurous (adventures)," Rijiju wrote, posting a video of himself swimming in a river in Arunachal Pradesh. "Never go to deep water if you do not know swimming. Many people have drowned in the river. The rivers in Arunachal Pradesh are huge and very deep," he wrote. Rijiju later shared another video explaining why swimming in Arunachal Pradesh's turbulent rivers is significantly different from swimming in a pool or relatively calm water. "Some people might think swimming in gushing rivers of Arunachal Pradesh is like swimming in pools or rivers like Yamuna. In raging rivers, our head should be up, not down & body should be more upright, not straight as we keep in swimming competition. Mein yahan ka khiladi hun," he said. Also Read: ‘No cause for panic’: ICMR says no new H1N1 strain detected, urges caution for high-risk groups Rahul Gandhi and Rijiju's fitness conversations In December last year, Rijiju shared a video on Instagram showing a conversation with Gandhi in Parliament. "Not talking politics, only fitness. I hope he will promote #FitIndiaMovement," the minister had said. According to an ANI report, Gandhi asked Rijiju about his exercise routine during the conversation and invited him to work out together. Their discussion also touched on martial arts, with Gandhi suggesting that the two could train together. How Rahul Gandhi stays fit at 56 Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has frequently spoken about his interest in fitness and physical activities. Recently, he discussed his fitness routine during an Instagram Ask Me Anything session, where he answered questions from students and Gen Z users about his personal life and interests. “Students, Gen Z, ask me anything and I will reply to as many questions,” Gandhi wrote while inviting questions from his followers. When a follower asked, “Hey Rahul, what’s your fitness routine?”, Gandhi said that there is no single workout regimen that guarantees fitness. Instead, he stressed the importance of consistency. “The thing about fitness that is important is not really the routine you follow. It is being persistent, doing it continuously and allowing it to compound,” he said. Gandhi said his routine combines several forms of physical activity. “I like doing a little bit of martial arts, swimming and running,” he said. He also revealed that yoga has recently become an important part of his routine. Rather than exercising only when he has free time, Gandhi said he makes fitness a priority even amid a busy schedule.

Kiren Rijiju takes a playful dig at Rahul Gandhi over river swimming, highlighting their light-hearted fitness rivalry and adventurous routines

Kiren Rijiju takes dig at Rahul Gandhi over river swimming, says ‘Mein yahan ka khiladi hun’

Amid the growing controversy over the rendition of Vande Mataram during Independence Day celebrations, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday (August 18) defended the version sung by him, saying it was the same rendition historically used by leaders including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Kharge said that if singing the version followed by the Congress amounts to a crime, the government should also register FIRs against the late national leaders who sang the same version.&nbsp;"I sang the same 'Vande Mataram' that Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru sang. If singing it is a crime, then they have been committing that crime for the past 18 years. If this is a crime, then file a case against Gandhi ji. If this is a crime, file one against Nehru ji. If this is a crime, then against Vallabhbhai Patel. They are unaware of the fact that, even before they were born, Congress had passed a resolution determining which national songs to adopt for the country. It is not the case that whatever you say becomes the national standard. Tomorrow, another government might come to power; if they say something, that becomes the rule. We have simply continued the practice that has been in place for 90 years," he told reporters.&nbsp;The controversy erupted after video footage from the Congress headquarters showed Kharge and Sonia Gandhi conversing while Vande Mataram was being rendered during the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. The BJP subsequently accused the Congress leadership of disrespecting the national song and demanded a public apology. The issue remained politically charged on Monday as well, when only two stanzas of Vande Mataram were sung at a Pradesh Congress Committee programme in Goa in the presence of Kharge.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-denies-excessive-use-of-force-during-jantar-mantar-protest-says-plainclothes-personnel-were-spotters-1787038708565">Delhi Police denies excessive use of force during Jantar Mantar protest, says plainclothes personnel were 'spotters'</a><h2>Kharge targets BJP and RSS in Goa</h2>During a public rally in South Goa, Kharge launched a sharp attack on the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), questioning their contribution to India's freedom struggle. Kharge also took a swipe at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, highlighting his own long political career and saying that he had become an MLA even before Shah was born.&nbsp;He further accused the BJP of repeatedly targeting the Gandhi family and Sonia Gandhi, while questioning the BJP and RSS's role in the freedom movement. Kharge also alleged that the BJP had ‘kidnapped’ MLAs to form its government in Goa and accused the ruling party of acting in an ‘anti-India’ and ‘anti-religion’ manner.<h2>Cong begins preparations for Goa Assembly Polls 2027</h2>Kharge also held a meeting with Goa Pradesh Congress Committee leaders on Tuesday to prepare the party's campaign strategy for the 2027 Goa Assembly elections. He said he had personally contacted Congress leaders and urged them to maintain unity ahead of the polls. Kharge said party leaders had assured him that they would remain united and work towards defeating the BJP.&nbsp;"I called all our leaders and spoke with them; I emphasised that we must fight the upcoming election unitedly. They assured me that they would stand together and win this time. Subsequently, I met with representatives from various sections of society, listened to their concerns, and engaged with them. I am happy that the Congress leaders here are working together with courage, despite the local government's attempts to intimidate and suppress us--tactics that will not succeed. In a democracy, when a government comes to power, it should act responsibly; when another government takes over, it too must operate within the rules. Our people will certainly do what is necessary to win the election peacefully," Kharge said.

Mallikarjun Kharge defends Congress's Vande Mataram rendition, challenges BJP over Gandhi, Nehru and Patel, and targets BJP-RSS in Goa

Amid the growing controversy over the rendition of Vande Mataram during Independence Day celebrations, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday (August 18) defended the version sung by him, saying it was the same rendition historically used by leaders including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Kharge said that if singing the version followed by the Congress amounts to a crime, the government should also register FIRs against the late national leaders who sang the same version. "I sang the same 'Vande Mataram' that Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru sang. If singing it is a crime, then they have been committing that crime for the past 18 years. If this is a crime, then file a case against Gandhi ji. If this is a crime, file one against Nehru ji. If this is a crime, then against Vallabhbhai Patel. They are unaware of the fact that, even before they were born, Congress had passed a resolution determining which national songs to adopt for the country. It is not the case that whatever you say becomes the national standard. Tomorrow, another government might come to power; if they say something, that becomes the rule. We have simply continued the practice that has been in place for 90 years," he told reporters. The controversy erupted after video footage from the Congress headquarters showed Kharge and Sonia Gandhi conversing while Vande Mataram was being rendered during the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. The BJP subsequently accused the Congress leadership of disrespecting the national song and demanded a public apology. The issue remained politically charged on Monday as well, when only two stanzas of Vande Mataram were sung at a Pradesh Congress Committee programme in Goa in the presence of Kharge. Also Read: Delhi Police denies excessive use of force during Jantar Mantar protest, says plainclothes personnel were 'spotters' Kharge targets BJP and RSS in Goa During a public rally in South Goa, Kharge launched a sharp attack on the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), questioning their contribution to India's freedom struggle. Kharge also took a swipe at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, highlighting his own long political career and saying that he had become an MLA even before Shah was born. He further accused the BJP of repeatedly targeting the Gandhi family and Sonia Gandhi, while questioning the BJP and RSS's role in the freedom movement. Kharge also alleged that the BJP had ‘kidnapped’ MLAs to form its government in Goa and accused the ruling party of acting in an ‘anti-India’ and ‘anti-religion’ manner. Cong begins preparations for Goa Assembly Polls 2027 Kharge also held a meeting with Goa Pradesh Congress Committee leaders on Tuesday to prepare the party's campaign strategy for the 2027 Goa Assembly elections. He said he had personally contacted Congress leaders and urged them to maintain unity ahead of the polls. Kharge said party leaders had assured him that they would remain united and work towards defeating the BJP. "I called all our leaders and spoke with them; I emphasised that we must fight the upcoming election unitedly. They assured me that they would stand together and win this time. Subsequently, I met with representatives from various sections of society, listened to their concerns, and engaged with them. I am happy that the Congress leaders here are working together with courage, despite the local government's attempts to intimidate and suppress us--tactics that will not succeed. In a democracy, when a government comes to power, it should act responsibly; when another government takes over, it too must operate within the rules. Our people will certainly do what is necessary to win the election peacefully," Kharge said.

Kharge defends Congress's Vande Mataram rendition, challenges BJP over Gandhi-Nehru-Patel versions and targets BJP-RSS ahead of Goa polls

'I sang the same Vande Mataram': Kharge defends rendition, challenges BJP to file FIR against Gandhi, Nehru and Patel

A heated debate over the Anti-Paper Leak Bill triggered massive disruptions in the Lok Sabha as Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched sharp attacks on the RSS and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. His remarks sparked strong objections from the Treasury benches, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju demanding that Rahul Gandhi either substantiate his allegations or apologize.

The debate quickly escalated into repeated protests and adjournments as opposition and ruling alliance MPs clashed over the education system, student protests, and the government's handling of examination reforms. The Opposition also continued to demand the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament.

Rahul Gandhi vs BJP in Parliament | Anti-Paper Leak Bill Debate Sparks Massive Uproar | Amit Shah

The anticipated political showdown between the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka took an unexpected twist, as the Tirupati laddu (an Indian sweet)&nbsp;issue evolved into a simmering debate involving Tirumala authorities in state of Andhra Pradesh.

The controversy, originally centred around the usage of Nandini brand ghee (clarified butter), in the revered Tirupati temple offering, has now ignited a clash of narratives, as reported by PTI.

<h2>A rift in ghee supply claims</h2>

The escalation began when officials from the Tirumala Temple Devasthanams (TTD) indicated that Nandini ghee had been used in Tirupati laddus for just one year out of the past two decades.

However, the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) swiftly contradicted this claim, stating that they had never specified the duration of their ghee supply to the temple.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/india-ttd-trust-plans-tirupati-temples-in-every-state-ut-says-report-608473">India: TTD trust plans Tirupati temples in every state and UT, says report</a>

<h2>Setting the stage for political strife</h2>

The unfolding events on a Sunday set the stage for a brewing political tussle.

References to KMF's alleged non-supply of Nandini ghee to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh quickly attracted the attention of Karnataka's ruling Congress party and provided ammunition for the opposition BJP to ramp up the heat.

<h2>Opposition heats up</h2>

Nalin Kumar Kateel, a prominent BJP leader, accused the Karnataka Congress government of deliberately halting the ghee supply as part of their "policy of indifference towards temples, and Hindu beliefs and devotion."

The BJP's claims added fuel to the controversy, shifting the focus onto the religious sentiments involved.

To counter the allegations, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that the suspension of Nandini ghee supply for Tirupati laddus had occurred during the tenure of the previous BJP government, effectively defusing the BJP's argument. This revelation introduced a twist in the timeline of events, demonstrating the complexity of the issue.

KMF Chairman Bheema Naik highlighted that the competitive bidding process for supply contracts had led to the selection of another supplier at a lower rate than KMF's bid.

He emphasised the high quality of Nandini ghee and expressed confidence in its superiority. However, the Tirumala Temple authorities contested KMF's claims, asserting that their ghee had been supplied only once in the past two decades, and that too for a relatively insignificant portion of their requirement.

As the controversy deepened, KMF officials anonymously denied making any definitive claims about the duration of their ghee supply to the temple. While KMF's Managing Director and CEO, MK Jagdish, confirmed their last supply in 2021-22, he reiterated their interest in re-establishing a connection with the TTD and resolving the pricing concerns.

Also watch |&nbsp;India: Haryana violence spreads, Delhi on alert; Police conducts flag march in Gurugram

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-haryana-violence-spreads-delhi-on-alert-police-conducts-flag-march-in-gurugram-wion-621613/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>A history of political&nbsp;manoeuvring&nbsp;</h2>

The Nandini brand, managed by KMF, had previously been entangled in political debates and counterclaims in Karnataka, both before and after the state Assembly elections. The BJP accused the Congress of exploiting the Nandini issue for political gains during the elections, leading to pricing fluctuations and strained supply relations.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

The anticipated political showdown between the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka took an unexpected twist, as the Tirupati laddu (an Indian sweet) issue evolved into a simmering debate involving Tirumala authorities in state of Andhra Pradesh.

The anticipated political showdown between the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka took an unexpected twist, as the Tirupati laddu (an Indian sweet) issue evolved into a simmering debate involving Tirumala authorities in state of Andhra Pradesh. The controversy, originally centred around the usage of Nandini brand ghee (clarified butter), in the revered Tirupati temple offering, has now ignited a clash of narratives, as reported by PTI. A rift in ghee supply claims The escalation began when officials from the Tirumala Temple Devasthanams (TTD) indicated that Nandini ghee had been used in Tirupati laddus for just one year out of the past two decades. However, the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) swiftly contradicted this claim, stating that they had never specified the duration of their ghee supply to the temple. Also read | India: TTD trust plans Tirupati temples in every state and UT, says report Setting the stage for political strife The unfolding events on a Sunday set the stage for a brewing political tussle. References to KMF's alleged non-supply of Nandini ghee to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh quickly attracted the attention of Karnataka's ruling Congress party and provided ammunition for the opposition BJP to ramp up the heat. Opposition heats up Nalin Kumar Kateel, a prominent BJP leader, accused the Karnataka Congress government of deliberately halting the ghee supply as part of their "policy of indifference towards temples, and Hindu beliefs and devotion." The BJP's claims added fuel to the controversy, shifting the focus onto the religious sentiments involved. To counter the allegations, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that the suspension of Nandini ghee supply for Tirupati laddus had occurred during the tenure of the previous BJP government, effectively defusing the BJP's argument. This revelation introduced a twist in the timeline of events, demonstrating the complexity of the issue. KMF Chairman Bheema Naik highlighted that the competitive bidding process for supply contracts had led to the selection of another supplier at a lower rate than KMF's bid. He emphasised the high quality of Nandini ghee and expressed confidence in its superiority. However, the Tirumala Temple authorities contested KMF's claims, asserting that their ghee had been supplied only once in the past two decades, and that too for a relatively insignificant portion of their requirement. As the controversy deepened, KMF officials anonymously denied making any definitive claims about the duration of their ghee supply to the temple. While KMF's Managing Director and CEO, MK Jagdish, confirmed their last supply in 2021-22, he reiterated their interest in re-establishing a connection with the TTD and resolving the pricing concerns. Also watch | India: Haryana violence spreads, Delhi on alert; Police conducts flag march in Gurugram A history of political manoeuvring The Nandini brand, managed by KMF, had previously been entangled in political debates and counterclaims in Karnataka, both before and after the state Assembly elections. The BJP accused the Congress of exploiting the Nandini issue for political gains during the elections, leading to pricing fluctuations and strained supply relations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: The humble Tirupati laddu has become a recipe for political battle. Here's how

The 2023 Karnataka Legislative Assembly elections were held on May 10 to elect 224 members of the state assembly. The counting began at 8 am IST on Saturday. So far, the Indian National Congress (INC) is leading with 119 seats, followed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular). In the southern state, the&nbsp;Chikkaballapur district recorded the highest voter turnout of 85.56 per cent, followed by Bengaluru Rural at 85.08 per cent. Below is the list of Udupi, Shimoga, Chitradurga and&nbsp;Chikmagalur. Scroll below to find out who are the emerging winners.

<h1>Karnataka Assembly Election 2023 Result Live Updates:</h1>

Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Udupi District

The assembly election 2023 saw a slight decrease in voter turnout in Udupi as compared to 2018. This year 78.5 per cent voter turnout was registered in Udupi. The Udupi district with five constituencies Byndoor, Kundapura, Kapu and Karkal has recorded almost a five per cent decrease in voter turnout, as in 2018 it was 79.4 per cent. The Byndoor constituency recorded 77.8 per cent, while Kundapur, Kaup and Karkala constituency recorded 78.9 per cent 78.8 per cent and 81.3 per cent respectively.&nbsp;


<style type="text/css">
</style>
UDUPI:

<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<colgroup>
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="126" />
		<col width="242" />
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="100" />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Sr Number&quot;}">Sr Number</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Constituency&quot;}">Constituency</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Leading/winner candidate&quot;}">Leading/winner candidate</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Party&quot;}">Party</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Status&quot;}">Status</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Byndoor&quot;}">1.</td>
			<td>Byndoor</td>
			<td>K Gopal Poojray</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Kundapura&quot;}">2.</td>
			<td>Kundapura</td>
			<td>A Kiran Kumar Kodgi&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Udupi&quot;}">3.</td>
			<td>Udupi</td>
			<td>Yashpal A Suvarna&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Kapu&quot;}">4.</td>
			<td>Kapu</td>
			<td>Gurme Suresh Shetty&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Karkal&quot;}">5.</td>
			<td>Karkal</td>
			<td>V Sunill Kumar</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-election-results-2023-full-list-of-congress-winning-candidates-with-constituencies-591853">Also read |&nbsp;Karnataka Election Results 2023: Full list of Congress winning candidates with constituencies</a>

Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Chikmagalur district

CHIKMAGALUR:

The Chikmagalur district&nbsp;is one of the key constituencies among 224 seats in the Karnataka Assembly polls 2023. This district is important for BJP as it has been a stronghold of the party for nearly 20 years. In 2018, BJP's CT Ravi won the district seat by defeating rival Congress candidate by a margin of 263,414 votes. The district recorded 82.2 per cent voter turnout in the previous Karnataka assembly election.&nbsp;

<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<colgroup>
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="126" />
		<col width="242" />
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="100" />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Sr Number&quot;}">Sr Number</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Constituency&quot;}">Constituency</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Leading/winner candidate&quot;}">Leading/winner candidate</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Party&quot;}">Party</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Status&quot;}">Status</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Sringeri&quot;}">1.</td>
			<td>Sringeri</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">T D Rajegowda&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Mudigere&quot;}">2.</td>
			<td>Mudigere</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Deepak Doddaiah&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Tarikere&quot;}">3.</td>
			<td>Tarikere</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">GH Srinivasa&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Kadur&quot;}">4.</td>
			<td>Kadur</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Belli Prakash&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Chikmagalur&quot;}">5.</td>
			<td>Chikmagalur</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">H D Thammaiah</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Shimoga district

The Bhadravati constituency falls under the Shimoga district, and the Shimoga assembly constituency falls under the Shimoga Lok Sabha constituency. In previous election, BJP's BY Raghavendra defeated S Madhubangarapp of the JD (S) by&nbsp;a margin of 223,360.&nbsp;

SHIMOGA

<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<colgroup>
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="126" />
		<col width="242" />
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="100" />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Sr Number&quot;}">Sr Number</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Constituency&quot;}">Constituency</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Leading/winner candidate&quot;}">Leading/winner candidate</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Party&quot;}">Party</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Status&quot;}">Status</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Shimoga Rural&quot;}">1.</td>
			<td>Shimoga Rural</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Sharada Puryanaik&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>JD (S)</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Bhadravati&quot;}">2.</td>
			<td>Bhadravati</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">BK Sanagameshwara</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Trithahalli&quot;}">3.</td>
			<td>Trithahalli</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Araga Jnanendra&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Shikaripura&quot;}">4.</td>
			<td>Shikaripura</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Vijayendra Yediyurappa&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Sagar&quot;}">5.</td>
			<td>Sagar</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Vijayendra Yediyurappa&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Shimoga&quot;}">6.</td>
			<td>Shimoga</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Channabasappa (Chenni)&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Sorab&quot;}">7.</td>
			<td>Sorab</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">Madhu Bangarappa&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-election-results-2023-check-full-list-of-jds-winning-candidates-with-constituencies-591860">Also read |&nbsp;Karnataka Election Results 2023: Check full list of JD(S) winning candidates with constituencies</a>

Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Chitradurga district

CHITRADURGA:

In Chitradurga, Raghu Achar from JD(S), GH Thippareddy and KC Veerendra are competing against each other in the Karnataka state assembly election. There are 246,346 voters in the district. This year, the total per cent of voting&nbsp;was&nbsp;recorded at&nbsp;75.85 per cent. In 2018, GH Thippareddy of BJP won the seat by a margin of 32,985 votes, defeating KC Verrendra of JD (S).

<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<colgroup>
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="126" />
		<col width="242" />
		<col width="100" />
		<col width="100" />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Sr Number&quot;}">Sr Number</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Constituency&quot;}">Constituency</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Leading/winner candidate&quot;}">Leading/winner candidate</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Party&quot;}">Party</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Status&quot;}">Status</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Molakalmuru&quot;}">1.</td>
			<td>Molakalmuru&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">NY Gopalakrishnan</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Challakere&quot;}">2.</td>
			<td>Challakere</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">T Raghumurthy</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Chitradurga&quot;}">3.</td>
			<td>Chitradurga&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">KC Veerendra Puppy&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Hiriyur&quot;}">4.</td>
			<td>Hiriyur</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">D Sudhakar</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Hosadurga&quot;}">5.</td>
			<td>Hosadurga</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">B G Govindappa</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Holakere&quot;}">6.</td>
			<td>Holakere</td>
			<td data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Awaited&quot;}">H Anjaneya</td>
			<td>Congress</td>
			<td>Awaited</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

This is a live updating copy, the list will be updated as soon as as the final results are out.

Follow Karnataka Election Results Live Blog&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-assembly-elections-result-2023-live-updates-591682" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

The 2023 Karnataka Legislative Assembly elections were held on May 10 to elect 224 members of the state assembly. The counting began at 8 am IST on Saturday. So far, the Indian National Congress (INC) is leading with 119 seats, followed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular).

The 2023 Karnataka Legislative Assembly elections were held on May 10 to elect 224 members of the state assembly. The counting began at 8 am IST on Saturday. So far, the Indian National Congress (INC) is leading with 119 seats, followed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular). In the southern state, the Chikkaballapur district recorded the highest voter turnout of 85.56 per cent, followed by Bengaluru Rural at 85.08 per cent. Below is the list of Udupi, Shimoga, Chitradurga and Chikmagalur. Scroll below to find out who are the emerging winners. Karnataka Assembly Election 2023 Result Live Updates: Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Udupi District The assembly election 2023 saw a slight decrease in voter turnout in Udupi as compared to 2018. This year 78.5 per cent voter turnout was registered in Udupi. The Udupi district with five constituencies Byndoor, Kundapura, Kapu and Karkal has recorded almost a five per cent decrease in voter turnout, as in 2018 it was 79.4 per cent. The Byndoor constituency recorded 77.8 per cent, while Kundapur, Kaup and Karkala constituency recorded 78.9 per cent 78.8 per cent and 81.3 per cent respectively. UDUPI: Sr Number Constituency Leading/winner candidate Party Status 1. Byndoor K Gopal Poojray Congress Awaited 2. Kundapura A Kiran Kumar Kodgi BJP Awaited 3. Udupi Yashpal A Suvarna BJP Awaited 4. Kapu Gurme Suresh Shetty BJP Awaited 5. Karkal V Sunill Kumar BJP Awaited Also read | Karnataka Election Results 2023: Full list of Congress winning candidates with constituencies Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Chikmagalur district CHIKMAGALUR: The Chikmagalur district is one of the key constituencies among 224 seats in the Karnataka Assembly polls 2023. This district is important for BJP as it has been a stronghold of the party for nearly 20 years. In 2018, BJP's CT Ravi won the district seat by defeating rival Congress candidate by a margin of 263,414 votes. The district recorded 82.2 per cent voter turnout in the previous Karnataka assembly election. Sr Number Constituency Leading/winner candidate Party Status 1. Sringeri T D Rajegowda Congress Awaited 2. Mudigere Deepak Doddaiah BJP Awaited 3. Tarikere GH Srinivasa Congress Awaited 4. Kadur Belli Prakash BJP Awaited 5. Chikmagalur H D Thammaiah Congress Awaited Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Shimoga district The Bhadravati constituency falls under the Shimoga district, and the Shimoga assembly constituency falls under the Shimoga Lok Sabha constituency. In previous election, BJP's BY Raghavendra defeated S Madhubangarapp of the JD (S) by a margin of 223,360. SHIMOGA Sr Number Constituency Leading/winner candidate Party Status 1. Shimoga Rural Sharada Puryanaik JD (S) Awaited 2. Bhadravati BK Sanagameshwara Congress Awaited 3. Trithahalli Araga Jnanendra BJP Awaited 4. Shikaripura Vijayendra Yediyurappa BJP Awaited 5. Sagar Vijayendra Yediyurappa BJP Awaited 6. Shimoga Channabasappa (Chenni) BJP Awaited 7. Sorab Madhu Bangarappa BJP Awaited Also read | Karnataka Election Results 2023: Check full list of JD(S) winning candidates with constituencies Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Results: Chitradurga district CHITRADURGA: In Chitradurga, Raghu Achar from JD(S), GH Thippareddy and KC Veerendra are competing against each other in the Karnataka state assembly election. There are 246,346 voters in the district. This year, the total per cent of voting was recorded at 75.85 per cent. In 2018, GH Thippareddy of BJP won the seat by a margin of 32,985 votes, defeating KC Verrendra of JD (S). Sr Number Constituency Leading/winner candidate Party Status 1. Molakalmuru NY Gopalakrishnan Congress Awaited 2. Challakere T Raghumurthy Congress Awaited 3. Chitradurga KC Veerendra Puppy Congress Awaited 4. Hiriyur D Sudhakar Congress Awaited 5. Hosadurga B G Govindappa Congress Awaited 6. Holakere H Anjaneya Congress Awaited This is a live updating copy, the list will be updated as soon as as the final results are out. Follow Karnataka Election Results Live Blog here.

Karnataka Election Results 2023 Live Counting: Check who is winning in Udupi, Shimoga & Chikmagalur district

Karnataka Election Results 2023 BJP WINNERSt: As counting for Karnataka's election comes to an end, the Bhartiya Janata Party has two declared winners. The party stands second in the race with 63 seats, whereas the India National Congress had a comfortable win with 136 seats and the Janata Dal (S) third with 22 seats.

Karnataka Election Results 2023 BJP WINNERSt: As counting for Karnataka's election comes to an end, the Bhartiya Janata Party has two declared winners. The party stands second in the race with 63 seats, whereas the India National Congress had a comfortable win with 136 seats and the Janata Dal (S) third with 22 seats. However, the BJP has three declared winners in Mahalakshmi Layout and Rajaji Nagar, where K Goapaliah and S Suresh Kumar took the lead. The results come as the opposition party Congress had been accusing the former BJP government of corruption and harassing people. Also read | Karnataka Election Results 2023: Check full list of JD(S) winning candidates with constituencies On May 10, after the pre-exit poll predicted that Congress will be leading the race, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai rejected the predictions claiming that the saffron party would get the numbers to form the government in the state again. But after the results were announced Bommai admitted defeat and said that the party will introspect once the results are out. He said, "In spite of a lot of efforts put in by PM & BJP workers, we've not been able to make the mark. Once the full results come we'll do a detailed analysis. We take this result in our stride to come back in Lok Sabha elections." Also read | Karnataka Election Results 2023: Full list of Congress winning candidates with constituencies Below is the list of winning candidates for the Karnataka Election 2023: Constituency Candidate Party Status Arabhavi BALACHANDRA LAXMANRAO JARKIHOLI Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Aurad PRABHU B CHAVAN Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Bangalore South M Krishnappa Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Bantval RAJESH NAIK U Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Basavakalyan SHARANU SALAGAR Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Basavanagudi RAVI SUBRAMANYA L.A. Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Belgaum Dakshin ABHAY PATIL Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Belthangady HARISH POONJA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Belur H.K. SURESH (HULLALLI SURESH) Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Bijapur City BASANAGOUDA R PATIL (YATNAL) Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Bommanahalli SATHISH REDDY .M Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Byndoor GURURAJ SHETTY GANTIHOLE Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress C.V. Raman Nagar S. RAGHU Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Chickpet UDAY B. GARUDACHAR Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Chincholi AVINASH UMESH JADHAV Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Dasarahalli S. MUNIRAJU Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Doddaballapur DHEERAJ MUNIRAJ Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Gokak JARKIHOLI RAMESH LAXMANRAO Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Gulbarga Rural BASAWARAJ MATTIMUDU Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Gulbarga Uttar CHANDRAKANT B. PATIL (CHANDU PATIL) Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Hadagalli KRISHNA NAYAKA. Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Harihar B P HARISH Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Holalkere M.CHANDRAPPA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Homnabad SIDDU PATIL Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Hubli-Dharwad-Central MAHESH TENGINAKAI Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Hubli-Dharwad-West ARVIND BELLAD Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Hukkeri KATTI NIKHIL UMESH Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Jagalur S.V.RAMACHANDRA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Jamkhandi JAGADEESH SHIVAYYA GUDAGUNTI Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress K.R. Pura B. A. BASAVARAJA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Kapu GURME SURESH SHETTY Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Karkal V SUNILL KUMAR Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Khanapur Vithal Somanna Halagekar Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Krishnaraja T.S. SRIVATHSA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Kundapura A KIRAN KUMAR KODGI Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Kundgol M R PATIL Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Kushtagi DODDANAGOUDA HANAMAGOUDA PATIL Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Lingsugur MANAPPA D VAJJAL Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Mahadevapura MANJULA S Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Mahalakshmi Layout K. GOPALAIAH Bharatiya Janata Party Winner Malleshwaram DR ASHWATH NARAYAN C N Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Malur K.S.MANJUNATHAGOWDA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Mangalore City North BHARATH SHETTY. Y. Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Mangalore City South D.VEDAVYASA KAMATH Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Moodabidri UMANATHA KOTIAN Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Mudigere DEEPAK DODDAIAH Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Nargund C. C. PATIl Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Nippani JOLLE SHASHIKALA ANNASAHEB Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Padmanaba Nagar R. ASHOKA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Raichur Dr. Shivaraj Patil Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Rajaji Nagar S.SURESH KUMAR Bharatiya Janata Party Winner Raybag AIHOLE DURYODHAN MAHALINGAPPA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Sakleshpur CEMENT MANJU Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Shiggaon BASAVARAJ BOMMAI Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Shikaripura VIJAYENDRA YEDIYURAPPA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Shimoga CHANNABASAPPA (CHENNI) Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Shirahatti DR.CHANDRU LAMANI Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Sullia BHAGIRATHI MURULYA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Terdal SIDDU SAVADI Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Tirthahalli ARAGA JNANENDRA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Tumkur Rural B.SURESH GOWDA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Udupi YASHPAL A SUVARNA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Vijay Nagar H RAVINDRA Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Yelahanka S R VISHWANATH Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Yellapur ARABAIL HEBBAR SHIVARAM Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress Yeshvanthapura S.T. SOMASHEKAR Bharatiya Janata Party Result in Progress (This is a live updating copy) Follow Karnataka Election Results Live Blog here .

Karnataka Elections 2023 WINNERS declared: Check full list of BJP candidates with constituencies

Karnataka Elections 2023: On May 10, all eyes will be on the Karnataka assembly elections. This&nbsp;day will decide the fate of the south Indian state for the next few years. The question is whether the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will win again or the opposition party Indian National Congress (INC) will form its government after 1999.&nbsp;

Ahead of the election, three opinion polls or pre-election surveys have predicted a major win for Congress, while an opinion poll by Zee News-Matrize has projected a win for the BJP, stating that it would emerge as the single-largest party.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-assembly-election-2023-congress-unveils-manifesto-promises-200-units-of-free-electricity-588075">Karnataka assembly election 2023: Congress unveils manifesto, promises 200 units of free electricity</a>

As cited by Hindustan Times, the ABP-CVoter opinion poll predicted that the Congress is likely to form the government in Karnataka, while BJP could face a big loss, and Janata Dal might perform below par. The opinion poll stated that out of 224 assembly seats in Karnataka, the Congress might win some 107 to 119 seats, while BJP is likely to bag some 74 to 86 seats and JD(S) can secure between 23 and 35 seats.&nbsp;

The polls suggest that Congress could end up securing some 40 per cent vote share, BJP might be five per cent behind and is likely to secure 35 per cent and JD (S) may get 17 per cent of the votes.&nbsp;

Another opinion poll by India Today-CVoter also predicted that "BJP is likely to lose" in Karnataka's assembly election. The poll also suggested that the current governing party BJP will secure just 74-86 seats, 24 down from the 2018 election.&nbsp;

As per the opinion poll, opposition leader Siddaramaiah of the Congress party is the most favoured leader with 42 per cent, followed by Chief Minister Basaraj Bommai with a 31 per cent vote.&nbsp;

Similarly, a&nbsp;pre-poll survey conducted by a&nbsp;Kannada outlet Eedina claimed that&nbsp;the Congress appears to be headed for a clear and comfortable majority with 32-140 seats, while BJP is predicted to win 57-65 seats, with a vote share of 33 per cent.

However, a&nbsp;poll of Zee News-Matrize and Kannada&nbsp;news channel Suvarna News 24x7&nbsp;claims&nbsp;that the ruling BJP will again emerge as the single-largest party, followed by Congress and then JD (S).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-2023-election-commission-of-india-introduces-vote-from-home-option-587041">Karnataka Elections 2023: Election Commission of India introduces ‘Vote from Home’ option</a>

It is to be noted that Congress has not been able to win the state, once its stronghold, since 1999.

In the last election of 2018, CM Bommai polled 83,868 votes, defeating Congress' Sayed Azeempeer Khadri, who secured 74,603 votes. Bommai is seeking re-election to the state assembly for the fourth consecutive time.&nbsp;

BJP stands for promotion in all languages, says Shah

In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Home Minister Amit Shah said that BJP stands for the promotion of all Indian languages and that the accusation that the party only promotes "Hindi" is politically motivated.&nbsp;

Shah when asked about Karnataka election results said that BJP would win an absolute majority. He said, "This is an important election for the BJP, and we will form the government with a full majority in Karnataka."

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Karnataka Elections 2023: On May 10, all eyes will be on the Karnataka assembly elections. This day will decide the fate of the south Indian state for the next few years.

Karnataka Elections 2023: On May 10, all eyes will be on the Karnataka assembly elections. This day will decide the fate of the south Indian state for the next few years. The question is whether the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will win again or the opposition party Indian National Congress (INC) will form its government after 1999. Ahead of the election, three opinion polls or pre-election surveys have predicted a major win for Congress, while an opinion poll by Zee News-Matrize has projected a win for the BJP, stating that it would emerge as the single-largest party. Also read | Karnataka assembly election 2023: Congress unveils manifesto, promises 200 units of free electricity As cited by Hindustan Times, the ABP-CVoter opinion poll predicted that the Congress is likely to form the government in Karnataka, while BJP could face a big loss, and Janata Dal might perform below par. The opinion poll stated that out of 224 assembly seats in Karnataka, the Congress might win some 107 to 119 seats, while BJP is likely to bag some 74 to 86 seats and JD(S) can secure between 23 and 35 seats. The polls suggest that Congress could end up securing some 40 per cent vote share, BJP might be five per cent behind and is likely to secure 35 per cent and JD (S) may get 17 per cent of the votes. Another opinion poll by India Today-CVoter also predicted that "BJP is likely to lose" in Karnataka's assembly election. The poll also suggested that the current governing party BJP will secure just 74-86 seats, 24 down from the 2018 election. As per the opinion poll, opposition leader Siddaramaiah of the Congress party is the most favoured leader with 42 per cent, followed by Chief Minister Basaraj Bommai with a 31 per cent vote. Similarly, a pre-poll survey conducted by a Kannada outlet Eedina claimed that the Congress appears to be headed for a clear and comfortable majority with 32-140 seats, while BJP is predicted to win 57-65 seats, with a vote share of 33 per cent. However, a poll of Zee News-Matrize and Kannada news channel Suvarna News 24x7 claims that the ruling BJP will again emerge as the single-largest party, followed by Congress and then JD (S). Also read | Karnataka Elections 2023: Election Commission of India introduces ‘Vote from Home’ option It is to be noted that Congress has not been able to win the state, once its stronghold, since 1999. In the last election of 2018, CM Bommai polled 83,868 votes, defeating Congress' Sayed Azeempeer Khadri, who secured 74,603 votes. Bommai is seeking re-election to the state assembly for the fourth consecutive time. BJP stands for promotion in all languages, says Shah In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Home Minister Amit Shah said that BJP stands for the promotion of all Indian languages and that the accusation that the party only promotes "Hindi" is politically motivated. Shah when asked about Karnataka election results said that BJP would win an absolute majority. He said, "This is an important election for the BJP, and we will form the government with a full majority in Karnataka." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Karnataka Elections 2023: Who is ahead? 3 pre-poll surveys suggest victory for Congress

At what cost the BJP should be stopped is the question which confronts Congress Party today. Should Congress Party sacrifice itself on the altar of secularism to prevent BJP coming to power or should it fight the elections to expand itself both electorally and organisationally?&nbsp;

Ideally, this question should have been settled two years back, but the party continues to vacillate on the issue of alliance and organisation. Congress today stands split between two types of groups. One group wants to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi at any cost, and hence, wants Congress to sacrifice and accommodate regional parties in form of a broader alliance.&nbsp;

The other group wants to contest the Lok Sabha elections with smaller partners who add strength to the Congress. This group has been resenting party’s tryst with SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh and with AAP in Delhi. What is surprising is despite resistance from the local leadership, the idea to stich an alliance continues to flow from the top leaders in the Congress. Even in the case of Uttar Pradesh, a big section within the Congress desires to become the part of the umbrella alliance in Uttar Pradesh.

The desire exists understanding fully well that it would damage the reputation and standing of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. With an alliance in place, the question would arise,” Why did you get Priyanka when Congress only wanted to fight on 10 odd seats.”

Where does this fear stems from? Does it stem from the fact that Congress has accepted that it cannot match vote consolidation of the BJP all across India? The answer lies somewhere else. It lies within the culture of Congress post 1970s.

Over a period of time, ideological debate on issues and individuals died in the Congress. This is not to say that great debates are taking place under Modi’s BJP, but RSS makes up for it by pursuing dialogues internally. Lack of this exercise creates an atmosphere which subsequently reduces idealism in the party. Idealism is a glue which kept Left and Right alive during lean times. Congress on the other hand either falls back on charisma of the Gandhi’s or power to stay together. With reduced charisma of Gandhis in national politics, the glue which holds the Congress together today is power hence the pressure from senior leadership to ensure Modi loses at any cost, even at the cost of the Congress Party?

This thinking needs to be seriously reversed for the health of democracy. Congress is the only national party after BJP. It is down but not out. It needs to get into a smart alliance with smaller parties and ensure that narrative remains around jobs and economy. Congress mishandled Pulwama terror attack and BJP stole the thunder right under its nose. Congress needs to reset the narrative which it had after winning three Hindi heartland states. If it fails, Congress will again be reduced to two digits in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Congress needs to regain the lost confidence too with the message that it will remain in business for the next 100 years. RSS was banned thrice and faced the stigma of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination but still survived to ensure that it had its government with a simple majority in power in 2014. This tenacity to stay relevant should be a learning curve for Congress.&nbsp;

This tenacity can be reached if Congress recreates a robust ideological culture inside the party which would recreate new ideals for the Congress.&nbsp;

Side by side, it should be ensured that the organisation is not compromised for the sake of keeping Modi out of power. It never worked for the Socialists. There rabid anti-Congress attitude was devoid of ideology and ultimately led to their own demise. Their governments were short lived. Same should not happen to Congress as it cannot afford to become Rishi Dadhichi who gave up his life so that his bones could be used to make an Astra to kill a demon.&nbsp;

In today’s context, Congress as a national party is required as a bulwark against hegemonic BJP. In the interest of democracy, it should focus on its own health rather than following the single point agenda of keeping Modi out.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

At what cost the BJP should be stopped is the question which confronts Congress Party today. Should Congress Party sacrifice itself on the altar of secularism to prevent BJP coming to power or should it fight the elections to expand itself both electorally and organisationally?

At what cost the BJP should be stopped is the question which confronts Congress Party today. Should Congress Party sacrifice itself on the altar of secularism to prevent BJP coming to power or should it fight the elections to expand itself both electorally and organisationally? Ideally, this question should have been settled two years back, but the party continues to vacillate on the issue of alliance and organisation. Congress today stands split between two types of groups. One group wants to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi at any cost, and hence, wants Congress to sacrifice and accommodate regional parties in form of a broader alliance. The other group wants to contest the Lok Sabha elections with smaller partners who add strength to the Congress. This group has been resenting party’s tryst with SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh and with AAP in Delhi. What is surprising is despite resistance from the local leadership, the idea to stich an alliance continues to flow from the top leaders in the Congress. Even in the case of Uttar Pradesh, a big section within the Congress desires to become the part of the umbrella alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The desire exists understanding fully well that it would damage the reputation and standing of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. With an alliance in place, the question would arise,” Why did you get Priyanka when Congress only wanted to fight on 10 odd seats.” Where does this fear stems from? Does it stem from the fact that Congress has accepted that it cannot match vote consolidation of the BJP all across India? The answer lies somewhere else. It lies within the culture of Congress post 1970s. Over a period of time, ideological debate on issues and individuals died in the Congress. This is not to say that great debates are taking place under Modi’s BJP, but RSS makes up for it by pursuing dialogues internally. Lack of this exercise creates an atmosphere which subsequently reduces idealism in the party. Idealism is a glue which kept Left and Right alive during lean times. Congress on the other hand either falls back on charisma of the Gandhi’s or power to stay together. With reduced charisma of Gandhis in national politics, the glue which holds the Congress together today is power hence the pressure from senior leadership to ensure Modi loses at any cost, even at the cost of the Congress Party? This thinking needs to be seriously reversed for the health of democracy. Congress is the only national party after BJP. It is down but not out. It needs to get into a smart alliance with smaller parties and ensure that narrative remains around jobs and economy. Congress mishandled Pulwama terror attack and BJP stole the thunder right under its nose. Congress needs to reset the narrative which it had after winning three Hindi heartland states. If it fails, Congress will again be reduced to two digits in Lok Sabha. Congress needs to regain the lost confidence too with the message that it will remain in business for the next 100 years. RSS was banned thrice and faced the stigma of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination but still survived to ensure that it had its government with a simple majority in power in 2014. This tenacity to stay relevant should be a learning curve for Congress. This tenacity can be reached if Congress recreates a robust ideological culture inside the party which would recreate new ideals for the Congress. Side by side, it should be ensured that the organisation is not compromised for the sake of keeping Modi out of power. It never worked for the Socialists. There rabid anti-Congress attitude was devoid of ideology and ultimately led to their own demise. Their governments were short lived. Same should not happen to Congress as it cannot afford to become Rishi Dadhichi who gave up his life so that his bones could be used to make an Astra to kill a demon. In today’s context, Congress as a national party is required as a bulwark against hegemonic BJP. In the interest of democracy, it should focus on its own health rather than following the single point agenda of keeping Modi out. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Should Congress sacrifice itself to keep Narendra Modi out?

bjp-vs-congress

Bjp Vs Congress, News on Bjp Vs Congress, stories on Bjp Vs Congress, articles on Bjp Vs Congress, Bjp Vs Congress stories at Wion, Bjp Vs Congress news, Bjp Vs Congress latest news

bjp vs-congress