After a fractured mandate, political parties must strive to build coalitions and form a government. Elections are a costly affair and should not be held in close succession. But we must all be careful what we wish for. An undecided Karnataka threw up no single party that has a majority. Perhaps the people of the state were not too enamoured by the choices that they had, or it could be a simple case of poll arithmetic. But all said and done, to have chief minister from a party that finished third at the hustings both in terms of seats and vote percentages seems ‘undemocratic’.

When HD Kumaraswamy speaks about staking a claim or Siddaramaiah says his Congress party will extend unconditional support to Kumaraswamy’s JD(S), it isn’t about the numbers that they help on, it is as much about the spirit of democracy and upholding the mandate that has been given.

The precedent that’s been set by the Supreme Court is that the Governor invites the largest pre-poll alliance, then the single-largest parties. In 2015, hearing a public interest litigation, the then Chief Justice HL Dattu and Justice Amitava Roy had expressed their inability to step-in an act against two political parties that chose to form a post-poll alliance. Justice Roy observed that a promise made by a political party was not a promise enforceable by law.

Apart from the options stated above, there are two other options that were enumerated in the Sarkaria Commission recommendations, which were affirmed by a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court in Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India in 2005. These are that the governor can invite a post-electoral coalition of parties, with all the partners in the coalition joining the government or that can invite a post-electoral alliance of parties, with some of the parties in the alliance forming a government and the remaining parties, including independents, supporting the government from outside.

The Congress has been harping on what happened in Goa last year where the Governor didn’t consult them even though they were the single largest party and went ahead after the BJP with the support of two other local parties staked claim. Post poll alliances aren’t new to the Indian context — but rarely has the experiment been in interests of the populace if the party that won the most seats or the party that finished second doesn’t manage to lead the government. Remember Madhu Koda anyone — the independent who became Jharkhand chief minister for almost 2 years in 2006. That experiment didn’t augur too well for the people of Jharkhand, did it? He allegedly made 4000-crore rupees in a mining scam, for which he was convicted in 2017 to three years in jail.

We clearly live in interesting times where phone connections are pre-paid and political alliances are post-poll, where consumers have number portability and the parties port ideologies. Politics makes strange bedfellows, no permanent foes or friends and certainly no untouchables. In the land of Mahatma Gandhi where the journey is more important than the destination, we seem to be surrounded by Machiavellian princes for whom the end justifies the means. The only question that then remains is what justifies the end?

The precedent that’s been set by the Supreme Court is that the Governor invites the largest pre-poll alliance

After a fractured mandate, political parties must strive to build coalitions and form a government. Elections are a costly affair and should not be held in close succession. But we must all be careful what we wish for. An undecided Karnataka threw up no single party that has a majority. Perhaps the people of the state were not too enamoured by the choices that they had, or it could be a simple case of poll arithmetic. But all said and done, to have chief minister from a party that finished third at the hustings both in terms of seats and vote percentages seems ‘undemocratic’. When HD Kumaraswamy speaks about staking a claim or Siddaramaiah says his Congress party will extend unconditional support to Kumaraswamy’s JD(S), it isn’t about the numbers that they help on, it is as much about the spirit of democracy and upholding the mandate that has been given. The precedent that’s been set by the Supreme Court is that the Governor invites the largest pre-poll alliance, then the single-largest parties. In 2015, hearing a public interest litigation, the then Chief Justice HL Dattu and Justice Amitava Roy had expressed their inability to step-in an act against two political parties that chose to form a post-poll alliance. Justice Roy observed that a promise made by a political party was not a promise enforceable by law. Apart from the options stated above, there are two other options that were enumerated in the Sarkaria Commission recommendations, which were affirmed by a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court in Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India in 2005. These are that the governor can invite a post-electoral coalition of parties, with all the partners in the coalition joining the government or that can invite a post-electoral alliance of parties, with some of the parties in the alliance forming a government and the remaining parties, including independents, supporting the government from outside. The Congress has been harping on what happened in Goa last year where the Governor didn’t consult them even though they were the single largest party and went ahead after the BJP with the support of two other local parties staked claim. Post poll alliances aren’t new to the Indian context — but rarely has the experiment been in interests of the populace if the party that won the most seats or the party that finished second doesn’t manage to lead the government. Remember Madhu Koda anyone — the independent who became Jharkhand chief minister for almost 2 years in 2006. That experiment didn’t augur too well for the people of Jharkhand, did it? He allegedly made 4000-crore rupees in a mining scam, for which he was convicted in 2017 to three years in jail. We clearly live in interesting times where phone connections are pre-paid and political alliances are post-poll, where consumers have number portability and the parties port ideologies. Politics makes strange bedfellows, no permanent foes or friends and certainly no untouchables. In the land of Mahatma Gandhi where the journey is more important than the destination, we seem to be surrounded by Machiavellian princes for whom the end justifies the means. The only question that then remains is what justifies the end?

Opinion: Congress-JD(S) deal done, are post-poll alliances undemocratic?

PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated the workers on the party’s success in Karnataka election.

He also expressed grief over the loss of lives in Varanasi, after a portion of an under-construction flyover collapsed this evening.&nbsp;

“I am happy about Karnataka’s victory but on the other hand, I am saddened by the loss of lives in Varanasi. I extend my condolences to the families of the deceased and assure that the government will do whatever it can to support these families,” he said.

PM Modi said that language was never a barrier in Karnataka. Congress wanted North-South divide.

PM Modi said: "They say BJP is a party of Hindi speaking states. Are Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra states in North East Hindi speaking states? No, BJP represents India. There was no barrier between people of Karnataka & me. I’ll always cherish the affection I received from them."

PM Modi speaking at the BJP headquarters slammed the Mamata government over the West Bengal Panchayat violence calling it a ‘murder of democracy’. He said people were bullied and weren't even allowed to file nominations.&nbsp;

He said: “There is one more thing I want to talk about...the scenes from the Panchayat Elections in West Bengal. It was nothing but a murder of democracy. From the nomination stage to the day of polling, where was the spirit of democracy? People were bullied.”

He added: “People were disallowed to file nominations also. It is not only BJP people who suffered. People from all the leading parties except the one that rules Bengal suffered. This is serious. A land as great as West Bengal has to see such sights, it is unfortunate. It is not about who wins polls....all those who are democratic-minded, including friends in civil society, they must come together to strengthen the democratic spirit. We cannot see things only in partisan terms.”

PM Modi said that language was never a barrier in Karnataka. Congress wanted North-South divide.

PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated the workers on the party’s success in Karnataka election. He also expressed grief over the loss of lives in Varanasi, after a portion of an under-construction flyover collapsed this evening. “I am happy about Karnataka’s victory but on the other hand, I am saddened by the loss of lives in Varanasi. I extend my condolences to the families of the deceased and assure that the government will do whatever it can to support these families,” he said. PM Modi said that language was never a barrier in Karnataka. Congress wanted North-South divide. PM Modi said: "They say BJP is a party of Hindi speaking states. Are Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra states in North East Hindi speaking states? No, BJP represents India. There was no barrier between people of Karnataka & me. I’ll always cherish the affection I received from them." PM Modi speaking at the BJP headquarters slammed the Mamata government over the West Bengal Panchayat violence calling it a ‘murder of democracy’. He said people were bullied and weren't even allowed to file nominations. He said: “There is one more thing I want to talk about...the scenes from the Panchayat Elections in West Bengal. It was nothing but a murder of democracy. From the nomination stage to the day of polling, where was the spirit of democracy? People were bullied.” He added: “People were disallowed to file nominations also. It is not only BJP people who suffered. People from all the leading parties except the one that rules Bengal suffered. This is serious. A land as great as West Bengal has to see such sights, it is unfortunate. It is not about who wins polls....all those who are democratic-minded, including friends in civil society, they must come together to strengthen the democratic spirit. We cannot see things only in partisan terms.”

PM Modi hails BJP’s showing in Karnataka, says Congress wanted North-South divide

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-karnataka-election-results-counting-underway-as-bjp-congress-wait-for-results-136866">Live Karnataka election leads: Congress: 30 | BJP: 29 | JD(S)+: 15</a>

After a high voltage election campaign and big voter turnout on Saturday, the day has finally arrived, today results will be declared in Karnataka with the BJP and Congress waiting with bated breath. The seat placement in the 222-member Karnataka Assembly is likely to change dramatically today with a hung house predicted. &nbsp&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-result-hd-kumaraswamy-offers-prayers-ahead-of-counting-136879">Karnataka result: HD Kumaraswamy offers prayers ahead of counting</a>

JD (S) chief ministerial candidate HD Kumaraswamy offered prayers at Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana Math in Nagamangala ahead of counting of votes for Karnataka Assembly elections, according to news agency ANI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-soldier-killed-in-ceasefire-violation-in-jammu-and-kashmir-136864">BSF soldier killed in ceasefire violation in Jammu and Kashmir</a>

A Border Security Force (BSF) soldier was killed in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan Army in Samba sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday morning, news agency ANI reports.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gap-apologises-for-wiping-out-taiwan-from-map-in-new-t-shirts-136858">GAP </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gap-apologises-for-wiping-out-taiwan-from-map-in-new-t-shirts-136858">apologises</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gap-apologises-for-wiping-out-taiwan-from-map-in-new-t-shirts-136858"> for wiping out Taiwan from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gap-apologises-for-wiping-out-taiwan-from-map-in-new-t-shirts-136858">map</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gap-apologises-for-wiping-out-taiwan-from-map-in-new-t-shirts-136858"> in new T-shirts</a>

US retailer Gap Inc apologised on Monday for selling a T-shirt which it said had an incorrect map of China, adding it would implement "rigorous reviews" to prevent a repeat mistake.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-released-from-hospital-after-assassination-bid-136881">Pakistan interior minister Ahsan Iqbal released from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-released-from-hospital-after-assassination-bid-136881">hospital</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-released-from-hospital-after-assassination-bid-136881"> after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-released-from-hospital-after-assassination-bid-136881">assassination</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-released-from-hospital-after-assassination-bid-136881"> bid</a>

Pakistan Interior minister Ahsan Iqbal was discharged from the services hospital on Monday, a week after he was shot at a rally in Narowal.&nbsp

Live Karnataka election leads: Congress: 30 | BJP: 29 | JD(S)+: 15 After a high voltage election campaign and big voter turnout on Saturday, the day has finally arrived, today results will be declared in Karnataka with the BJP and Congress waiting with bated breath. The seat placement in the 222-member Karnataka Assembly is likely to change dramatically today with a hung house predicted. Karnataka result: HD Kumaraswamy offers prayers ahead of counting JD (S) chief ministerial candidate HD Kumaraswamy offered prayers at Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana Math in Nagamangala ahead of counting of votes for Karnataka Assembly elections, according to news agency ANI. BSF soldier killed in ceasefire violation in Jammu and Kashmir A Border Security Force (BSF) soldier was killed in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan Army in Samba sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday morning, news agency ANI reports. GAP apologises for wiping out Taiwan from map in new T-shirts US retailer Gap Inc apologised on Monday for selling a T-shirt which it said had an incorrect map of China, adding it would implement "rigorous reviews" to prevent a repeat mistake. Pakistan interior minister Ahsan Iqbal released from hospital after assassination bid Pakistan Interior minister Ahsan Iqbal was discharged from the services hospital on Monday, a week after he was shot at a rally in Narowal.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Narendra Modi government has spent a whopping Rs 4,300 crore on publicity since it came to power from May 2014, an agency under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has said in reply to an Right to Information (RTI) query.

The Bureau of Outreach Communication under the Ministry said the government spent ₹4,343.26 crore on advertising its programmes across media platforms.

This included ₹1732.15 crore on advertisements in the print media (from June 1, 2014, to December 7, 2017) and ₹2079.87 crore in the electronic media (from June 1, 2014, to March 31, 2018). A sum of ₹531.24 crore was spent on outdoor publicity (June 2014 to January 2018), it said.

Mumbai-based RTI activist Anil Galgali had sought details from the centre's Bureau of Outreach and Communication (BOC) on all spend on advertisement and publicity in all media since the present government assumed office.

The RTI replies also said that between April-December 2017 (nine-month period), the government spent Rs. 333.23 crore on the print medium alone, with the total figure of last fiscal (April 2017-March 2018) coming to Rs. 955.46 crore.

However, as per reports, the total spending of last financial year is still significantly higher than the present government's first year in office when it spent Rs. 953.54 crore in just nine months in office.

Tapan Sutradhar, Financial Advisor, Bureau of Outreach Communication, provided expenditure details on publicity campaigns from June 2014.

“Print media included newspapers, magazines, while electronic media covered TV, Internet, radio, digital cinema, SMSs etc. Outdoor publicity included posters, banners, digital panels, hoardings, railway tickets etc,” the reply stated.

The bureau was formed after merging three media units of the I&B Ministry to ensure “credible, consistent and clear communication” by various wings of the government across media platforms.

The RTI replies also said that between April-December 2017 (nine-month period), the government spent Rs. 333.23 crore on the print medium alone, with the total figure of last fiscal (April 2017-March 2018) coming to Rs. 955.46 crore

The Narendra Modi government has spent a whopping Rs 4,300 crore on publicity since it came to power from May 2014, an agency under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has said in reply to an Right to Information (RTI) query. The Bureau of Outreach Communication under the Ministry said the government spent ₹4,343.26 crore on advertising its programmes across media platforms. This included ₹1732.15 crore on advertisements in the print media (from June 1, 2014, to December 7, 2017) and ₹2079.87 crore in the electronic media (from June 1, 2014, to March 31, 2018). A sum of ₹531.24 crore was spent on outdoor publicity (June 2014 to January 2018), it said. Mumbai-based RTI activist Anil Galgali had sought details from the centre's Bureau of Outreach and Communication (BOC) on all spend on advertisement and publicity in all media since the present government assumed office. The RTI replies also said that between April-December 2017 (nine-month period), the government spent Rs. 333.23 crore on the print medium alone, with the total figure of last fiscal (April 2017-March 2018) coming to Rs. 955.46 crore. However, as per reports, the total spending of last financial year is still significantly higher than the present government's first year in office when it spent Rs. 953.54 crore in just nine months in office. Tapan Sutradhar, Financial Advisor, Bureau of Outreach Communication, provided expenditure details on publicity campaigns from June 2014. “Print media included newspapers, magazines, while electronic media covered TV, Internet, radio, digital cinema, SMSs etc. Outdoor publicity included posters, banners, digital panels, hoardings, railway tickets etc,” the reply stated. The bureau was formed after merging three media units of the I&B Ministry to ensure “credible, consistent and clear communication” by various wings of the government across media platforms.

Modi government has spent Rs 4,300 crore on advertising, publicity: RTI query

Cabinet reshuffle is an exercise which is carried out in secrecy but when announced, conveys a loud message. The same has happened today.

While the charge of finance ministry has been given to Piyush Goyal, who has won accolades during his tenure as power minister, the biggest shock is sidelining of Smriti Irani, again. Irani has been moved back to the textiles ministry, from the high profile Information and Broadcasting ministry.

The message is clear from Prime Minister Narendra Modi - silent workers are welcome and controversy making ministers are not. Smriti Irani was first sidelined in the year 2016 after the Rohith Vemula controversy. Prime Minister had to make a special effort to counter the charge of the Opposition that NDA is not anti-Dalit. She kept her low profile and was given a second chance by the Prime Minister in July 2017 when she was appointed as the I&B minister.

Irani was again in news recently&nbsp;for the wrong reason. Irani had come under attack earlier this month after I&B Ministry amended guidelines on accreditation of journalists for, what it said, to check fake news.&nbsp;The amended guidelines had stated that a journalist or a publication could lose accreditation in the event of a confirmed incident of fake news. The guidelines were withdrawn following a directive to do so by the PMO.

The controversy impacted the office of the President. It was followed by the issue related to the freedom of press on which the PM had to intervene. These two incidents were the final nails in the coffin.

This decision also needs to be seen in the context of the rise and rise of the Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman whose quiet work and ability to keep the government away from controversy led to her elevation as the top 5 ministers in the country. Her failure to rally the press and get along with all the constituents added to this.

The inclusion of SS Ahluwalia is seen as an adjustment. He is close to Sushma Swaraj and was a leading light during LK Advani’s tenure as the Deputy Prime Minister (2002-2004). This move is a clear indication that patience and silence can be more rewarding with Modi.

The real beneficiary has been Rajyavardhan Rathore. He already heads the Sports Ministry, and now has also been given independent charge of I&B Ministry. He is already the spokesperson for the government of India.

The reshuffle may be small and limited but the message is loud and clear. Ministers who create controversies at the expense of the government will not be tolerated. Smriti Irani is a case in example. She lost two ministries because of being outspoken. What keeps her alive is probably Amethi where she is pitched against Rahul Gandhi. She has not left the constituency and wants to ensure that BJP can defeat Congress in its own bastion.

The message is clear from the Prime Minister. Silent workers are welcome and controversy making ministers are not

Cabinet reshuffle is an exercise which is carried out in secrecy but when announced, conveys a loud message. The same has happened today. While the charge of finance ministry has been given to Piyush Goyal, who has won accolades during his tenure as power minister, the biggest shock is sidelining of Smriti Irani, again. Irani has been moved back to the textiles ministry, from the high profile Information and Broadcasting ministry. The message is clear from Prime Minister Narendra Modi - silent workers are welcome and controversy making ministers are not. Smriti Irani was first sidelined in the year 2016 after the Rohith Vemula controversy. Prime Minister had to make a special effort to counter the charge of the Opposition that NDA is not anti-Dalit. She kept her low profile and was given a second chance by the Prime Minister in July 2017 when she was appointed as the I&B minister. Irani was again in news recently for the wrong reason. Irani had come under attack earlier this month after I&B Ministry amended guidelines on accreditation of journalists for, what it said, to check fake news. The amended guidelines had stated that a journalist or a publication could lose accreditation in the event of a confirmed incident of fake news. The guidelines were withdrawn following a directive to do so by the PMO. The controversy impacted the office of the President. It was followed by the issue related to the freedom of press on which the PM had to intervene. These two incidents were the final nails in the coffin. This decision also needs to be seen in the context of the rise and rise of the Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman whose quiet work and ability to keep the government away from controversy led to her elevation as the top 5 ministers in the country. Her failure to rally the press and get along with all the constituents added to this. The inclusion of SS Ahluwalia is seen as an adjustment. He is close to Sushma Swaraj and was a leading light during LK Advani’s tenure as the Deputy Prime Minister (2002-2004). This move is a clear indication that patience and silence can be more rewarding with Modi. The real beneficiary has been Rajyavardhan Rathore. He already heads the Sports Ministry, and now has also been given independent charge of I&B Ministry. He is already the spokesperson for the government of India. The reshuffle may be small and limited but the message is loud and clear. Ministers who create controversies at the expense of the government will not be tolerated. Smriti Irani is a case in example. She lost two ministries because of being outspoken. What keeps her alive is probably Amethi where she is pitched against Rahul Gandhi. She has not left the constituency and wants to ensure that BJP can defeat Congress in its own bastion.

Opinion: PM Modi shows way, reshuffles cabinet, sidelines Smriti Irani again

Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackrey has challenged the BJP to conduct elections on ballot papers.

The challenge from the leader of the Alliance party has come&nbsp;amid the Opposition's allegations of EVM tampering on BJP.

The opposition targetted the BJP claiming that its victory in the southern state was possible because of EVM tampering.

The accusations came in the wake of BJP emerging as the largest party&nbsp;after the election results in Karnataka.

Reacting to the opposition's allegations against the BJP, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray asked the BJP to conduct elections with a ballot paper.

He said, "Just one time, I want BJP to head into elections with ballot papers and not EVMs. All the apprehensions will go away,".&nbsp;

Further,&nbsp;he was joined by&nbsp;Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray who tweeted, "This is a victory for the Electronic Voting Machine".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaVerdict?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaVerdict</a> 
It’s a victory for the ‘Electronic Voting Machine’ !
— Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) <a href="https://twitter.com/RajThackeray/status/996296811210932224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The BJP is having an estranged alliance with its alliance partner Shiv Sena.

Shiv Sena had recently announced its support for Congress nominee Vishwajeet Kadam against the BJP in the upcoming byelection in Maharashtra.

(With input&nbsp;from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Further, he was joined by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray who tweeted, 'This is a victory for the Electronic Voting Machine'

Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackrey has challenged the BJP to conduct elections on ballot papers. The challenge from the leader of the Alliance party has come amid the Opposition's allegations of EVM tampering on BJP. The opposition targetted the BJP claiming that its victory in the southern state was possible because of EVM tampering. The accusations came in the wake of BJP emerging as the largest party after the election results in Karnataka. Reacting to the opposition's allegations against the BJP, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray asked the BJP to conduct elections with a ballot paper. He said, "Just one time, I want BJP to head into elections with ballot papers and not EVMs. All the apprehensions will go away,". Further, he was joined by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray who tweeted, "This is a victory for the Electronic Voting Machine". #KarnatakaVerdict It’s a victory for the ‘Electronic Voting Machine’ ! — Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) May 15, 2018 × The BJP is having an estranged alliance with its alliance partner Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena had recently announced its support for Congress nominee Vishwajeet Kadam against the BJP in the upcoming byelection in Maharashtra. (With input from agencies)

Amid allegations of EVM tampering, Shiv Sena challenges BJP to conduct elections on ballot paper

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a press conference a short while ago stating that Congress will support the JD(S) in forming the government. He also meet Governor Vajubhai Vala and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-results-siddaramaiah-to-meet-governor-to-submit-his-resignation-today-137027">served his resignation</a>.&nbsp;

"No party has a majority... Congress has decided to support the JD(S)," said Siddaramaiah.

"JD(S) will form the government with our help," he added.

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Siddaramaiah submits his resignation to the Governor of Karnataka <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaVerdict?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaVerdict</a> <a href="https://t.co/ay5biEnIM7">pic.twitter.com/ay5biEnIM7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996339402812022784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad also briefed media about a telephonic conversation with Former Prime Minister and JD(S) chief Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy. The minister noted that Congress has agreed to extend <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-offers-outside-support-to-jds-to-form-government-in-karnataka-reports-137018">outside support to JD(S)</a> and that the party can choose to nominate a Chief Ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

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We had a telephonic conversation with Deve Gowda ji & Kumaraswamy. They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together: Ghulam Nabi Azad, Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/OemBerpX7r">pic.twitter.com/OemBerpX7r</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996320637332275200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;"They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together," Azad noted.

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We accept the mandate of the people. We bow our heads to the verdict. We don’t have numbers to form govt. The Congress has offered to support JD(S) to form govt: G. Parameshwara, Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/C4Hn3rtYGl">pic.twitter.com/C4Hn3rtYGl</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996319833942777856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to the Election Commission, at the moment BJP leads in 106 seats, the Congress in 75, the JD(S) in 38.&nbsp;

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to polls this election. A total of 112 seats are needed to form a government. The Congress-JD(S) alliance will make up a total of 113 seats.&nbsp;

Karnataka last witnessed a hung assembly&nbsp;during the 2004 state election.

No party has a majority....Congress has decided to support the JD(S): Siddaramaiah

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a press conference a short while ago stating that Congress will support the JD(S) in forming the government. He also meet Governor Vajubhai Vala and served his resignation. "No party has a majority... Congress has decided to support the JD(S)," said Siddaramaiah. "JD(S) will form the government with our help," he added. Siddaramaiah submits his resignation to the Governor of Karnataka #KarnatakaVerdict pic.twitter.com/ay5biEnIM7 — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad also briefed media about a telephonic conversation with Former Prime Minister and JD(S) chief Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy. The minister noted that Congress has agreed to extend outside support to JD(S) and that the party can choose to nominate a Chief Ministerial candidate. We had a telephonic conversation with Deve Gowda ji & Kumaraswamy. They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together: Ghulam Nabi Azad, Congress. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/OemBerpX7r — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × "They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together," Azad noted. We accept the mandate of the people. We bow our heads to the verdict. We don’t have numbers to form govt. The Congress has offered to support JD(S) to form govt: G. Parameshwara, Congress. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/C4Hn3rtYGl — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × According to the Election Commission, at the moment BJP leads in 106 seats, the Congress in 75, the JD(S) in 38. Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to polls this election. A total of 112 seats are needed to form a government. The Congress-JD(S) alliance will make up a total of 113 seats. Karnataka last witnessed a hung assembly during the 2004 state election.

Siddaramaiah submits resignation, says JD(S) will form govt with Cong help

Following the declaration of the results of the Karnataka assembly elections,&nbsp;Congress leader and incumbent chief minister Siddaramaiah has decided&nbsp;to meet the governor and submit his resignation to him.

Siddaramaiah will meet the governor&nbsp;Vajubhai Vala at 4 pm today.

The Congress chief ministerial candidate contested the polls from two constituencies,&nbsp;Chamundeshwari and Badami.

While he lost from Chamundeshwari, Siddaramaiah won from Badami by defeating BJP's B Sriramulu.

The results of the elections declared BJP as the major winning party with 104 seats, Congress winning 78 while JDS 36 seats.

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CM Siddaramaiah to meet the Governor of Karnataka at 4 pm today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/euKZ0nMLO0">pic.twitter.com/euKZ0nMLO0</a>
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&nbsp;

Siddaramaiah will meet the governor Vajubhai Vala at 4 pm today

Following the declaration of the results of the Karnataka assembly elections, Congress leader and incumbent chief minister Siddaramaiah has decided to meet the governor and submit his resignation to him. Siddaramaiah will meet the governor Vajubhai Vala at 4 pm today. The Congress chief ministerial candidate contested the polls from two constituencies, Chamundeshwari and Badami. While he lost from Chamundeshwari, Siddaramaiah won from Badami by defeating BJP's B Sriramulu. The results of the elections declared BJP as the major winning party with 104 seats, Congress winning 78 while JDS 36 seats. CM Siddaramaiah to meet the Governor of Karnataka at 4 pm today. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/euKZ0nMLO0 — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 ×

Karnataka results: Siddaramaiah to meet governor to submit his resignation today

The counting of votes is underway in Karnataka and the BJP has taken the lead. The party is currently leading in&nbsp;106&nbsp;seats, while the Congress is leading in 76.&nbsp;

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this time. (Voting was postponed in Bengaluru's RR Nagar seat where close to 10,000 voter IDs were recovered from a flat. Voting was also postponed in another seat where a candidate died.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The halfway mark then is 112 seats.&nbsp;

Should the Congress lose Karnataka, it will be left in power in only two Indian states and one union territory.

The two states are Punjab and Mizoram. The UT is Puducherry.&nbsp;

The BJP on the other will end up ruling 21 states (including Karnataka) out of 29.&nbsp;

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-bjp-leaders-hail-victory-congress-disappointed-in-karnataka-election-136924#">BJP leaders hail victory, Congress disappointed in Karnataka election</a>

The Congress recently lost Himachal Pradesh, while the BJP retained Gujarat, the latest in a string of defeats since 2014 when Prime Minister Modi came to power at the Centre.&nbsp;

While campaigning for the 2014 general elections, Modi had promised a "Congress-mukt Bharat".&nbsp;

In 2017, the Congress lost Goa and Manipur — despite emerging as the single-largest party in both states.&nbsp;

In the 2014 general elections, the Congress won only 44 Lok Sabha — marking a new low.

The next state elections coming up in 2018 are Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The BJP is in power in all three and will therefore have to fight the anti-incumbency factor there.

Also see: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-election-results-what-didnt-work-for-congress-136929">Karnataka election results: What didn't work for Congress</a>

In Karnataka, Modi's last-minute blitzkrieg seems to have paid off. The BJP is currently leading in 11 of the 19 constituencies that Modi campaigned in.

Of the 16 constituencies that Rahul Gandhi campaigned in, the Congress is leading in 6.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-karnataka-election-results-counting-underway-as-bjp-congress-wait-for-results-136866">Watch the live updates of the Karnataka elections here.</a>

The BJP is currently leading in 106 seats in Karnataka. The two states the Congress still rules in are Punjab and Mizoram. The union territory is Puducherry

The counting of votes is underway in Karnataka and the BJP has taken the lead. The party is currently leading in 106 seats, while the Congress is leading in 76. Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this time. (Voting was postponed in Bengaluru's RR Nagar seat where close to 10,000 voter IDs were recovered from a flat. Voting was also postponed in another seat where a candidate died.) The halfway mark then is 112 seats. Should the Congress lose Karnataka, it will be left in power in only two Indian states and one union territory. The two states are Punjab and Mizoram. The UT is Puducherry. The BJP on the other will end up ruling 21 states (including Karnataka) out of 29. Watch: BJP leaders hail victory, Congress disappointed in Karnataka election The Congress recently lost Himachal Pradesh, while the BJP retained Gujarat, the latest in a string of defeats since 2014 when Prime Minister Modi came to power at the Centre. While campaigning for the 2014 general elections, Modi had promised a "Congress-mukt Bharat". In 2017, the Congress lost Goa and Manipur — despite emerging as the single-largest party in both states. In the 2014 general elections, the Congress won only 44 Lok Sabha — marking a new low. The next state elections coming up in 2018 are Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The BJP is in power in all three and will therefore have to fight the anti-incumbency factor there. Also see: Karnataka election results: What didn't work for Congress In Karnataka, Modi's last-minute blitzkrieg seems to have paid off. The BJP is currently leading in 11 of the 19 constituencies that Modi campaigned in. Of the 16 constituencies that Rahul Gandhi campaigned in, the Congress is leading in 6. Watch the live updates of the Karnataka elections here.

Should Congress lose Karnataka, it will be left in power in only two states, 1 UT

BJP's Chief Ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa was on Tuesday elected to the Karnataka Assembly from Shikaripura by 35,397 votes, the Election Commission announced.

Yeddyurappa, 75, defeated Congress nominee Goni Malatesha and seven others in his home constituency.

Yeddyurappa, who had dealt a body blow to the BJP in 2013 by quitting the party to form his own KJP, returned to mother party before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

In 2016 he became BJP state chief and a year later he was officially made the CM candidate.

(With inputs from Karnataka)

In 2016 he became BJP state chief and a year later he was officially made the CM candidate.

BJP's Chief Ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa was on Tuesday elected to the Karnataka Assembly from Shikaripura by 35,397 votes, the Election Commission announced. Yeddyurappa, 75, defeated Congress nominee Goni Malatesha and seven others in his home constituency. Yeddyurappa, who had dealt a body blow to the BJP in 2013 by quitting the party to form his own KJP, returned to mother party before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. In 2016 he became BJP state chief and a year later he was officially made the CM candidate. (With inputs from Karnataka)

BJP's CM face BS Yeddyurappa wins from Shikaripura

With a day left for the Karnataka election results, speculation in the south Indian state is running wild. With a whole spectrum of exit polls predicting every possible outcome, the results this time are truly shrouded in mystery.&nbsp;

So what are the possible outcomes in these hard-fought Karnataka elections?&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The stakes are particularly high for the Congress, being the incumbent in the state. Relegated to just three states nationally, the grand old party would want to return to power with a full majority.&nbsp; 
With indications of a hung assembly being thrown up well in advance, the Congress strategy led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was focused on consolidating the AHINDA vote base comprising minorities, Dalits and SC/STs. The three communities form 60% of the state's population. If Congress fails to get a full majority or something close to it, it will be forced to look at coalition options.&nbsp;

But Siddaramaiah's bitter relationship with the JD(S) and its supremo HD Deve Gowda could prove to be a roadblock for talks between the two parties. In the event of talks happening, Siddaramaiah can bid his chief ministership goodbye.&nbsp;

HD Kumaraswamy would want to be the king, not kingmaker, least of all for Siddaramaiah. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In another scenario, the Congress might look for a more neutral face to lead its charge in the state.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-okay-with-dalit-chief-minister-if-congress-high-command-says-so-karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah-136619">I am okay with Dalit chief minister if Congress high command says so, says Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah</a>

Some of the names doing the rounds include that that of veteran leader and MP Mallikarjuna Kharge.&nbsp;

Kharge missed out on becoming chief minister in 2013.&nbsp;

KPCC President G Parameshwar has also nursed CM ambitions, and even said that he will welcome the high command's decision to have a Dalit chief minister.&nbsp;

The other leader who has shown chief ministerial ambitions is Energy Minister DK Shivakumar.&nbsp;His chequered image had kept him out of the race last time and his demand for the deputy CM's post was not met.&nbsp;

Last but not least, Congress could consider the non-controversial figures of Industry Minister RV Deshpande and KPCC working president Dinesh Gundurao.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the Congress has not officially declared a CM candidate, but merely made Siddaramaiah in charge.&nbsp;

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This issue has been created in media to create differences between us. We are clear that high command will decide on it. It's just a matter of 12 hours: Mallikarjun Kharge on Siddaramaiah's comment, 'I can sacrifice CM's post for a Dalit' <a href="https://t.co/ewchYMHcXM">pic.twitter.com/ewchYMHcXM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995900129235238917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Let's move on to the BJP. Their chief ministerial candidate is BS Yeddyurappa.&nbsp;

Like for Siddaramaiah, these elections could be the last for the 75-yearr-old Yeddyurappa should he fail to bring the party back to power.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
If the BJP does get into talks with the JD(S) following a post-poll hung assembly, then Yeddyurappa's chief ministership might be in trouble.&nbsp;

Unlike the absolute mess that the BJP and JD(S) had together created in 2007, this time around Kumaraswamy might demand the position all for himself — owing to Yeddyurappa's diminished stature.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Just as important to remember is that coalition governments have been extremely unstable in Karnataka, with most coalition chief ministers not completing a full term.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Siddaramaiah's bitter relationship with JD(S) supremo HD Deve Gowda could prove to be a stumbling block to talks. In the event of a BJP-JD(S) coalition, Kumarasway might demand the job for himself owing to Yeddyurappa's diminished stature

With a day left for the Karnataka election results, speculation in the south Indian state is running wild. With a whole spectrum of exit polls predicting every possible outcome, the results this time are truly shrouded in mystery. So what are the possible outcomes in these hard-fought Karnataka elections? The stakes are particularly high for the Congress, being the incumbent in the state. Relegated to just three states nationally, the grand old party would want to return to power with a full majority. With indications of a hung assembly being thrown up well in advance, the Congress strategy led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was focused on consolidating the AHINDA vote base comprising minorities, Dalits and SC/STs. The three communities form 60% of the state's population. If Congress fails to get a full majority or something close to it, it will be forced to look at coalition options. But Siddaramaiah's bitter relationship with the JD(S) and its supremo HD Deve Gowda could prove to be a roadblock for talks between the two parties. In the event of talks happening, Siddaramaiah can bid his chief ministership goodbye. HD Kumaraswamy would want to be the king, not kingmaker, least of all for Siddaramaiah. In another scenario, the Congress might look for a more neutral face to lead its charge in the state. Also read: I am okay with Dalit chief minister if Congress high command says so, says Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Some of the names doing the rounds include that that of veteran leader and MP Mallikarjuna Kharge. Kharge missed out on becoming chief minister in 2013. KPCC President G Parameshwar has also nursed CM ambitions, and even said that he will welcome the high command's decision to have a Dalit chief minister. The other leader who has shown chief ministerial ambitions is Energy Minister DK Shivakumar. His chequered image had kept him out of the race last time and his demand for the deputy CM's post was not met. Last but not least, Congress could consider the non-controversial figures of Industry Minister RV Deshpande and KPCC working president Dinesh Gundurao. Interestingly, the Congress has not officially declared a CM candidate, but merely made Siddaramaiah in charge. This issue has been created in media to create differences between us. We are clear that high command will decide on it. It's just a matter of 12 hours: Mallikarjun Kharge on Siddaramaiah's comment, 'I can sacrifice CM's post for a Dalit' pic.twitter.com/ewchYMHcXM — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × Let's move on to the BJP. Their chief ministerial candidate is BS Yeddyurappa. Like for Siddaramaiah, these elections could be the last for the 75-yearr-old Yeddyurappa should he fail to bring the party back to power. If the BJP does get into talks with the JD(S) following a post-poll hung assembly, then Yeddyurappa's chief ministership might be in trouble. Unlike the absolute mess that the BJP and JD(S) had together created in 2007, this time around Kumaraswamy might demand the position all for himself — owing to Yeddyurappa's diminished stature. Just as important to remember is that coalition governments have been extremely unstable in Karnataka, with most coalition chief ministers not completing a full term.

If hung verdict, both Siddaramaiah & Yeddyurappa may have to give up Karnataka CM ambitions

Congress nominee Vishwakeet Kadam's election from Palus Kadegaon Assembly seat in the bypoll scheduled later this month is a mere formality now as the main rival BJP has withdrawn from the race.

The bypoll, scheduled on May 28, was necessitated because of the death of sitting Congress MLA and former minister Patangrao Kadam.

The Congress has fielded his son Vishwajeet Kadam from the seat.

The BJP had earlier finalised the candidature of Sangramsing Deshmukh for the byelection to Palus-Kadegaon Assembly constituency in Maharashtra's Sangli's district.

Deshmukh is the president of Sangli Zilla Parishad and deputy chairman of Sangli District Cooperative Bank.

On the last day of withdrawal of nomination papers on Monday, state revenue minister Chandrakant Patil told reporters at Kadepur taluka in Sangli that the BJP will not contest the bypoll.

The Shiv Sena had last week announced its support for the Congress nominee.

Vishwajeet Kadam, the son of Patangrao Kadam, is the only mainstream candidate now in fray for the byelection.

He had unsuccessfully contested from the Pune Lok Sabha seat in the 2014 elections.

He inherits a strong legacy from his father in the form of control over a Sangli-based cooperative sugar mill, several dairies, educational institutes and cooperative societies in the western Maharashtra district.

The winner of the bypoll will hold the office for just over a year, as the term of the current Assembly ends in October 2019.&nbsp

Congress nominee Vishwakeet Kadam's election from Palus Kadegaon Assembly seat in the bypoll scheduled later this month is a mere formality now as the main rival BJP has withdrawn from the race

Congress nominee Vishwakeet Kadam's election from Palus Kadegaon Assembly seat in the bypoll scheduled later this month is a mere formality now as the main rival BJP has withdrawn from the race. The bypoll, scheduled on May 28, was necessitated because of the death of sitting Congress MLA and former minister Patangrao Kadam. The Congress has fielded his son Vishwajeet Kadam from the seat. The BJP had earlier finalised the candidature of Sangramsing Deshmukh for the byelection to Palus-Kadegaon Assembly constituency in Maharashtra's Sangli's district. Deshmukh is the president of Sangli Zilla Parishad and deputy chairman of Sangli District Cooperative Bank. On the last day of withdrawal of nomination papers on Monday, state revenue minister Chandrakant Patil told reporters at Kadepur taluka in Sangli that the BJP will not contest the bypoll. The Shiv Sena had last week announced its support for the Congress nominee. Vishwajeet Kadam, the son of Patangrao Kadam, is the only mainstream candidate now in fray for the byelection. He had unsuccessfully contested from the Pune Lok Sabha seat in the 2014 elections. He inherits a strong legacy from his father in the form of control over a Sangli-based cooperative sugar mill, several dairies, educational institutes and cooperative societies in the western Maharashtra district. The winner of the bypoll will hold the office for just over a year, as the term of the current Assembly ends in October 2019.

BJP withdraws from race for Palus-Kadegaon Assembly bypoll

"I am not prepared to accept or reject anything, let's wait for May 15," former prime minister Deve Gowda said Sunday after exit polls suggested voters have returned a hung verdict in the Karnataka elections.&nbsp;

The exit polls however give the BJP a slight edge.&nbsp;

According to the Zee Maha exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 102 seats, the Congress 92, the JD(S) 26, and others, including independents, 2.

That implies no major political party will be able to reach the halfway mark of 113 seats required for a simple majority.

If the exit polls should turn out to be correct, that will leave the JD(S) led by HD Deve Gowda in the position of kingmaker when it comes to government formation.&nbsp;

That means the the BJP or the Congress will require the support of the JD(S) to form a government in Karnataka.&nbsp;

Karnataka went to the polls on Saturday.&nbsp;

The results will be out on May 15.&nbsp;

"We will get to know the reality" then, said Deve Gowda on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-says-exit-polls-are-entertainment-after-they-give-bjp-edge-in-karnataka-tells-party-workers-to-enjoy-weekend-136452">Siddaramaiah says exit polls are 'entertainment' after they give BJP edge in Karnataka</a>

Here is what the major exit poll surveys projected for Karnataka:

- According to the Suvarna exit poll, the Congress is likely to win 106-118 seats, the BJP 79-92, the JD(S) 22-30, and others 1-4 seats.

- According to the ABP exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 97-109 seats, the Congress 87-99, the JD(S) 21-30, and others 1-8.&nbsp;

- The Republic TV Jan Ki Baat exit poll says the BJP will be the single largest party with 95-114 seats. The Congress is likely to win 73-82, the JD(S) 32-42 seats, and others 2 to 3 seats in Karnataka. In the 2013 Karnataka elections, the Congress had won 122 seats, the BJP and JD(S) ended up with 40 seats each, while 22 seats were won by others and independents.

- According to the IndiaTV-VMR exit poll, the BJP will win 87 seats, the Congress will win 97 seats, and the JD(S) 35 seats. &nbsp;

- The News X-CNX exit poll survey predicts the BJP will emerge as the single largest party in Karnataka with 102-110 seats, the Congress will come second with 72-78 seats, the JD(S) third with 35-39 seats, while others will get 3-5 seats.

- According to the Times Now-VMR exit poll, the Congress will win 90-103 seats, the BJP 82-93, the JD(S) 31-39 and others 2-4.

Karnataka has a 225-member assembly.&nbsp;

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I am not prepared to accept or reject anything, let's wait for 15th May (counting of votes ), we will get to know the reality: Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/ffOPCubX0B">pic.twitter.com/ffOPCubX0B</a>
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The exit polls give the BJP a slight edge. 'Let's wait for 15th May,' said Gowda. 'We will get to know the reality'

"I am not prepared to accept or reject anything, let's wait for May 15," former prime minister Deve Gowda said Sunday after exit polls suggested voters have returned a hung verdict in the Karnataka elections. The exit polls however give the BJP a slight edge. According to the Zee Maha exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 102 seats, the Congress 92, the JD(S) 26, and others, including independents, 2. That implies no major political party will be able to reach the halfway mark of 113 seats required for a simple majority. If the exit polls should turn out to be correct, that will leave the JD(S) led by HD Deve Gowda in the position of kingmaker when it comes to government formation. That means the the BJP or the Congress will require the support of the JD(S) to form a government in Karnataka. Karnataka went to the polls on Saturday. The results will be out on May 15. "We will get to know the reality" then, said Deve Gowda on Sunday. Also read: Siddaramaiah says exit polls are 'entertainment' after they give BJP edge in Karnataka Here is what the major exit poll surveys projected for Karnataka: - According to the Suvarna exit poll, the Congress is likely to win 106-118 seats, the BJP 79-92, the JD(S) 22-30, and others 1-4 seats. - According to the ABP exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 97-109 seats, the Congress 87-99, the JD(S) 21-30, and others 1-8. - The Republic TV Jan Ki Baat exit poll says the BJP will be the single largest party with 95-114 seats. The Congress is likely to win 73-82, the JD(S) 32-42 seats, and others 2 to 3 seats in Karnataka. In the 2013 Karnataka elections, the Congress had won 122 seats, the BJP and JD(S) ended up with 40 seats each, while 22 seats were won by others and independents. - According to the IndiaTV-VMR exit poll, the BJP will win 87 seats, the Congress will win 97 seats, and the JD(S) 35 seats. - The News X-CNX exit poll survey predicts the BJP will emerge as the single largest party in Karnataka with 102-110 seats, the Congress will come second with 72-78 seats, the JD(S) third with 35-39 seats, while others will get 3-5 seats. - According to the Times Now-VMR exit poll, the Congress will win 90-103 seats, the BJP 82-93, the JD(S) 31-39 and others 2-4. Karnataka has a 225-member assembly. I am not prepared to accept or reject anything, let's wait for 15th May (counting of votes ), we will get to know the reality: Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/ffOPCubX0B — ANI (@ANI) May 13, 2018 ×

Will JD(S)'s Deve Gowda support BJP or Congress in Karnataka? 'Let's wait,' he says

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Sunday that "exit opinion polls are entertainment" after they gave the BJP a slight edge in Karnataka.&nbsp;

Karnataka voted on Saturday and the exit polls are saying the people have returned a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/exit-poll-fractured-mandate-hung-assembly-likely-in-karnataka-136419">hung verdict</a>.&nbsp;

The results of the elections will be out on Tuesday, May 15.&nbsp;

"Exit opinion polls are entertainment for the next 2 days," Siddaramaiah tweeted.&nbsp;

"So, Dear party workers, supporters & well wishers, don’t worry about exit polls. Relax & enjoy your weekend," he said. Adding, "We are coming back."&nbsp;

According to the Zee Maha exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 102 seats, the Congress 92, the JD(S) 26, and others, including independents, 2.

That implies no major political party will be able to reach the halfway mark of 113 seats required for a simple majority.

If the exit polls should turn out to be correct, the JD(S) led by HD Deve Gowda will assume the role of kingmaker in government formation.&nbsp;

Though the final picture will emerge only after the counting of votes on May 15, the exit polls have shattered the Congress'&nbsp;hopes of retaining power in the state and the BJP's hopes of making a comeback, putting for now the ball in HD Deve Gowda's court.

Here is what the major exit poll surveys projected for Karnataka:

- According to the Suvarna exit poll, the Congress is likely to win 106-118 seats, the BJP 79-92, the JD(S) 22-30, and others 1-4 seats.

- According to the ABP exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 97-109 seats, the Congress 87-99, the JD(S) 21-30, and others 1-8.&nbsp;

- The Republic TV Jan Ki Baat exit poll&nbsp;says the BJP will be the single largest party with 95-114 seats. The Congress is likely to win 73-82, the JD(S) 32-42 seats, and others 2 to 3 seats in Karnataka. In the 2013 Karnataka elections, the Congress had won 122 seats, the BJP and JD(S) ended up with 40 seats each, while 22 seats were won by others and independents.

- According to the IndiaTV-VMR exit poll, the BJP will win 87 seats, the Congress will win 97 seats, and the JD(S) 35 seats. &nbsp;

- The News X-CNX exit poll survey predicts the BJP will emerge as the single largest party in Karnataka with 102-110 seats, the Congress will come second with 72-78 seats, the JD(S) third with 35-39 seats, while others will get 3-5 seats.

- According to the Times Now-VMR exit poll, the Congress will win 90-103 seats, the BJP 82-93, the JD(S) 31-39 and others 2-4.

Karnataka has a 225-member assembly.&nbsp;

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Exit opinion polls are entertainment for the next 2 days 
 
Relying on poll of polls is like a person who can’t swim crossing a river on foot relying on a statistician who told him the average depth of the river is 4 feet 
 
Please note average of 6+4+2 is 4. At 6 feet you drown! 1/2
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/995484100957007872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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So, Dear party workers, supporters & well wishers, don’t worry about exit polls. Relax & enjoy your weekend. 
 
We are coming back. 2/2
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Karnataka voted on Saturday and the exit polls are saying the people have returned a hung verdict. That would make the JD(S) headed by former prime minister HD Deve Gowda a kingmaker when it comes to government formation

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Sunday that "exit opinion polls are entertainment" after they gave the BJP a slight edge in Karnataka. Karnataka voted on Saturday and the exit polls are saying the people have returned a hung verdict. The results of the elections will be out on Tuesday, May 15. "Exit opinion polls are entertainment for the next 2 days," Siddaramaiah tweeted. "So, Dear party workers, supporters & well wishers, don’t worry about exit polls. Relax & enjoy your weekend," he said. Adding, "We are coming back." According to the Zee Maha exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 102 seats, the Congress 92, the JD(S) 26, and others, including independents, 2. That implies no major political party will be able to reach the halfway mark of 113 seats required for a simple majority. If the exit polls should turn out to be correct, the JD(S) led by HD Deve Gowda will assume the role of kingmaker in government formation. Though the final picture will emerge only after the counting of votes on May 15, the exit polls have shattered the Congress' hopes of retaining power in the state and the BJP's hopes of making a comeback, putting for now the ball in HD Deve Gowda's court. Here is what the major exit poll surveys projected for Karnataka: - According to the Suvarna exit poll, the Congress is likely to win 106-118 seats, the BJP 79-92, the JD(S) 22-30, and others 1-4 seats. - According to the ABP exit poll, the BJP is likely to win 97-109 seats, the Congress 87-99, the JD(S) 21-30, and others 1-8. - The Republic TV Jan Ki Baat exit poll says the BJP will be the single largest party with 95-114 seats. The Congress is likely to win 73-82, the JD(S) 32-42 seats, and others 2 to 3 seats in Karnataka. In the 2013 Karnataka elections, the Congress had won 122 seats, the BJP and JD(S) ended up with 40 seats each, while 22 seats were won by others and independents. - According to the IndiaTV-VMR exit poll, the BJP will win 87 seats, the Congress will win 97 seats, and the JD(S) 35 seats. - The News X-CNX exit poll survey predicts the BJP will emerge as the single largest party in Karnataka with 102-110 seats, the Congress will come second with 72-78 seats, the JD(S) third with 35-39 seats, while others will get 3-5 seats. - According to the Times Now-VMR exit poll, the Congress will win 90-103 seats, the BJP 82-93, the JD(S) 31-39 and others 2-4. Karnataka has a 225-member assembly. Exit opinion polls are entertainment for the next 2 days Relying on poll of polls is like a person who can’t swim crossing a river on foot relying on a statistician who told him the average depth of the river is 4 feet Please note average of 6+4+2 is 4. At 6 feet you drown! 1/2 — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 13, 2018 × So, Dear party workers, supporters & well wishers, don’t worry about exit polls. Relax & enjoy your weekend. We are coming back. 2/2 — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 13, 2018 ×

Siddaramaiah says exit polls are 'entertainment' after they give BJP edge in Karnataka

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Karnataka chief ministerial candidate B.S. Yeddyurappa on Sunday said that his party would resister resounding victory in the state and decimated the Congress government with an overwhelming majority.

Addressing a press conference here, Yeddyurappa expressed confidence that there is a strong wave in favour of his party. 
"I have seen the exit polls. BJP will win more than 125-130 seats. Congress will not be able to cross 70 seats and Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S) will not cross 24-25 seats. There is a silent and strong wave in favour of BJP and public anger against Siddaramaiah and Congress," he said.

"This will be known when the results would be declared on Tuesday. BJP will form the government with an absolute majority, while Congress will exit from Karnataka," he added.

When asked about Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's advice on not believing the exit polls, Yeddyurappa said, "I am not saying this. Congress knows that it will lose in the election. There is no question of a hung assembly. I am confident that the BJP will form the government."

The BJP leader, while reacting to Siddaramaiah's statement on calling him "mentally disturbed" added that he was making such statements because he would lose the Chamundeshwari and Badami seats where the Karnataka Chief Minister is contesting from.

Responding to Yeddyurappa's previous statement that he would form the government in the state on May 17, Siddaramaiah quipped on Saturday, "He's mentally disturbed now."

Asked about the possible formation of the BJP government in the state, Yeddyurappa further said, "He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is in touch with me and (BJP President) Amit Shah. Everybody is confident of winning with an absolute majority. We are 100 percent sure of forming the government on May 17."

The Assembly polls, which began at 7 a.m. at 58,546 polling stations earlier in the day concluded at 7 p.m. The Election Commission (EC) said that voter turnout recorded was 70 percent, compared to 71.4 percent in 2013 elections in Karnataka.

A total of 2,654 candidates, including 216 women candidates were in the fray for the assembly elections this year.

While Belagavi district had the highest number of voters (37,23,585), Kodagu district had the lowest voter share (4,33,846).

The election in two constituencies, Jayanagar and Rajarajeshwari Nagar, both in Bengaluru was postponed earlier.

In Jayanagar, the polling was also deferred due to the death of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, B N Vijay Kumar, on May 4. 
In Rajarajeshwari Nagar, the polling was postponed after a bundle of fake voter identity cards was found from a flat in Bengaluru's Jalahalli locality by the EC officials on May 8. Polling for this seat is scheduled for May 28, while counting of votes will take place on May 31.

The EC ordered the re-polling of the Hebbal assembly constituency's polling station number 2 in Bengaluru as the polling was stopped earlier on Saturday due to a technical glitch in the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM).

As per the EC, a total of 600 pink polling stations were set up across the state, which was completely managed by women. Meanwhile, wheelchairs were also made available in some stations, with youth volunteers engaged for the assistance of differently-abled voters. 
Tight security arrangements were made to ensure smooth and peaceful single-phase polling in 222 constituencies, including 36 reserved for the Scheduled Castes (SC) and 15 for the Scheduled Tribes (ST) and 26 in Bengaluru.

The counting of votes and announcement of results will take place on Tuesday.

The Election Commission (EC) said that voter turnout recorded was 70 percent, compared to 71.4 percent in 2013 elections in Karnataka.

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Karnataka chief ministerial candidate B.S. Yeddyurappa on Sunday said that his party would resister resounding victory in the state and decimated the Congress government with an overwhelming majority. Addressing a press conference here, Yeddyurappa expressed confidence that there is a strong wave in favour of his party. "I have seen the exit polls. BJP will win more than 125-130 seats. Congress will not be able to cross 70 seats and Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S) will not cross 24-25 seats. There is a silent and strong wave in favour of BJP and public anger against Siddaramaiah and Congress," he said. "This will be known when the results would be declared on Tuesday. BJP will form the government with an absolute majority, while Congress will exit from Karnataka," he added. When asked about Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's advice on not believing the exit polls, Yeddyurappa said, "I am not saying this. Congress knows that it will lose in the election. There is no question of a hung assembly. I am confident that the BJP will form the government." The BJP leader, while reacting to Siddaramaiah's statement on calling him "mentally disturbed" added that he was making such statements because he would lose the Chamundeshwari and Badami seats where the Karnataka Chief Minister is contesting from. Responding to Yeddyurappa's previous statement that he would form the government in the state on May 17, Siddaramaiah quipped on Saturday, "He's mentally disturbed now." Asked about the possible formation of the BJP government in the state, Yeddyurappa further said, "He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is in touch with me and (BJP President) Amit Shah. Everybody is confident of winning with an absolute majority. We are 100 percent sure of forming the government on May 17." The Assembly polls, which began at 7 a.m. at 58,546 polling stations earlier in the day concluded at 7 p.m. The Election Commission (EC) said that voter turnout recorded was 70 percent, compared to 71.4 percent in 2013 elections in Karnataka. A total of 2,654 candidates, including 216 women candidates were in the fray for the assembly elections this year. While Belagavi district had the highest number of voters (37,23,585), Kodagu district had the lowest voter share (4,33,846). The election in two constituencies, Jayanagar and Rajarajeshwari Nagar, both in Bengaluru was postponed earlier. In Jayanagar, the polling was also deferred due to the death of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, B N Vijay Kumar, on May 4. In Rajarajeshwari Nagar, the polling was postponed after a bundle of fake voter identity cards was found from a flat in Bengaluru's Jalahalli locality by the EC officials on May 8. Polling for this seat is scheduled for May 28, while counting of votes will take place on May 31. The EC ordered the re-polling of the Hebbal assembly constituency's polling station number 2 in Bengaluru as the polling was stopped earlier on Saturday due to a technical glitch in the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM). As per the EC, a total of 600 pink polling stations were set up across the state, which was completely managed by women. Meanwhile, wheelchairs were also made available in some stations, with youth volunteers engaged for the assistance of differently-abled voters. Tight security arrangements were made to ensure smooth and peaceful single-phase polling in 222 constituencies, including 36 reserved for the Scheduled Castes (SC) and 15 for the Scheduled Tribes (ST) and 26 in Bengaluru. The counting of votes and announcement of results will take place on Tuesday.

Karnataka polls: BJP will win over 125 seats, asserts Yeddyurappa

A voter turnout of 24 per cent has been recorded so far in the Karnataka assembly elections till 11 am

The polls, which began at 7 a.m at 58,546 polling stations, each equipped with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), will conclude at 6 pm.

Earlier in the day, a faulty VVPAT machine was replaced in Hubli, which had stalled the voting.

The election in two constituencies, Jayanagar and Rajarajeshwari Nagar, both in Bengaluru has been postponed.

In Jayanagar, the polling has been deferred due to the death of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, B N Vijay Kumar, on May 4. In Rajarajeshwari Nagar, it has been postponed after a bundle of fake voter identity cards was found from a flat in Bengaluru`s Jalahalli locality by the Election Commission (EC) officials on May 8.

The election in Karnataka is considered crucial for the Congress Party, as it would be looking to prevent the BJP juggernaut from expanding its footprints in the south.

Since the 2014 general election, the Congress has been defeated by the BJP in over a dozen states, drastically shrinking its political footprint.

The BJP is making an all-out bid to oust the Siddaramaiah government in Karnataka and is looking to come back to power in the state with B.S. Yeddyurappa, its chief ministerial candidate.

Interestingly, no incumbent government has been re-elected in Karnataka since 1985.

The Janata Dal (Secular) is looking to establish itself once again in Karnataka politics and is expected to give a tough fight to both the BJP and the Congress.

A total of 2,654 candidates are in the fray and 4.96-crore electorate, including 2.44 crore women, will cast their votes.

Over 15 lakh people are first-time voters in the 18-19 age group.

Tight security is in place to ensure smooth and peaceful single-phase polling in 222 constituencies, including 36 reserved for the Scheduled Castes (SC) and 15 for the Scheduled Tribes (ST) and 26 in Bengaluru.

The majority mark for any party to form the government is 112. The counting of votes and announcement of results will take place on Tuesday.

The polls, which began at 7 a.m at 58,546 polling stations, each equipped with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), will conclude at 6 pm.

A voter turnout of 24 per cent has been recorded so far in the Karnataka assembly elections till 11 am The polls, which began at 7 a.m at 58,546 polling stations, each equipped with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), will conclude at 6 pm. Earlier in the day, a faulty VVPAT machine was replaced in Hubli, which had stalled the voting. The election in two constituencies, Jayanagar and Rajarajeshwari Nagar, both in Bengaluru has been postponed. In Jayanagar, the polling has been deferred due to the death of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, B N Vijay Kumar, on May 4. In Rajarajeshwari Nagar, it has been postponed after a bundle of fake voter identity cards was found from a flat in Bengaluru`s Jalahalli locality by the Election Commission (EC) officials on May 8. The election in Karnataka is considered crucial for the Congress Party, as it would be looking to prevent the BJP juggernaut from expanding its footprints in the south. Since the 2014 general election, the Congress has been defeated by the BJP in over a dozen states, drastically shrinking its political footprint. The BJP is making an all-out bid to oust the Siddaramaiah government in Karnataka and is looking to come back to power in the state with B.S. Yeddyurappa, its chief ministerial candidate. Interestingly, no incumbent government has been re-elected in Karnataka since 1985. The Janata Dal (Secular) is looking to establish itself once again in Karnataka politics and is expected to give a tough fight to both the BJP and the Congress. A total of 2,654 candidates are in the fray and 4.96-crore electorate, including 2.44 crore women, will cast their votes. Over 15 lakh people are first-time voters in the 18-19 age group. Tight security is in place to ensure smooth and peaceful single-phase polling in 222 constituencies, including 36 reserved for the Scheduled Castes (SC) and 15 for the Scheduled Tribes (ST) and 26 in Bengaluru. The majority mark for any party to form the government is 112. The counting of votes and announcement of results will take place on Tuesday.

Karnataka polls: 24% voting recorded till 11 am

The D-Day for the elections in Karnataka is here. In just a few hours, the 4.94-crore strong electorate will begin exercising their franchise to decide the fates of over 2500 candidates, contesting for 222 assembly seats.

The Karnataka election, essentially, is a triangular contest among the incumbent Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S).

The southern state of Karnataka is one of the three states, where Congress is still in power. The other being Punjab and Mizoram and a union territory, Puducherry.

Siddaramaiah, the incumbent chief minister who is also leading the campaign in the state, is highly confident that Congress would retain the state and win with a huge majority. During the past few weeks, he has travelled extensively across the state, wooing voters, while lambasting the BJP for fielding tainted candidates in the high-stake elections.

While, the BJP, led by star campaigner Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has left no stones unturned and campaigned extensively in various parts of the state. Not only he has cornered and attacked the Congress on numerous occasions, he has also promised to make a "Nava Karnataka" (New Karnataka) if the party wins.

The third force in the state, the JD(S), led by former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, is also confident that his party would win enough seats to play a kingmaker role, if not from the government, in case the electorate throws up a fractured mandate.

Here is a look at some of the key constituencies and key players:

1. Varuna

The high-profile Varuna constituency in Mysuru district was supposed to see a neck-to-neck electoral fight between Siddaramaiah son's Dr. Yathindra and former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa's son, B.Y. Vijayendra.

However, the sudden decision by the state BJP unit to not field Vijayendra has pulled the curtains on this big showdown.

Siddaramaiah has been contesting from this constituency since 2008. However, he decided to pass on the baton to his son this time.

Hence, the constituency would be still making news as Dr. Yathindra (37) will be making his political debut today.

Yathindra is now fighting against BJP's Thotadappa Basavaraju and Abhishek S. Manegar of the JD(S).

A Congress bastion, Siddaramaiah, in the last election, easily defeated Karnataka Jana Paksha's (KJP) Kapu Siddalingaswamy and Cheluvaraj of the JD(S) by a comfortable margin of 29,641 votes (18.45 per cent), securing 52.53 per cent of the total votes polled. The seat witnessed a voter turnout of 82.43 per cent.

In 2008, Congress won with a margin of 18,837 votes (13.16 percent), getting polled by 50.23 per cent of the total voters.

There are a total of 2,13,812 voters in the constituency, including over 1 lakh female and 13 other voters.

2. Chamundeshwari

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is fighting from this high-profile constituency and will be facing BJP's S.R. Gopalrao and G.T. Devegowda of the JD (S), a powerful face from the Vokkaliga community and an ex-mentor of the chief minister.

Chamundeshwari in Mysuru district is named after the goddess who is worshipped with great fervour during the annual Dasara festival.

In the previous two elections, the seat has either gone to the Congress (2008) or the JD (S) (2013).

There are a total of 2,89,138 voters in the constituency. Among them over 1.42 lakh are female voters and 32 others.

3. Badami

Badami, a tourist town in Bagalkot district in northern Karnataka is renowned for its cave temples.

Siddaramaiah is contesting from this constituency and holds prominence here as it is dominated by the Kuruba community, a shepherd community to which the chief minister belongs.

Winning the Badami and Chamundeshwari seats would help Siddaramaiah to again stake claim to the state's top post for second consecutive time, if the party wins the elections with a brute majority.

The Karnataka Chief Minister is locking horns with B. Sriramulu of the BJP.

In the 2013 elections, Congress won the Badami seat with a margin of 15,113 votes (10.87 per cent) securing 41.31 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency saw a voter turnout of 70.71 per cent.

In 2008, however, the BJP won this constituency with a margin of 5,107 votes (4.29 per cent), receiving 44.85 per cent of the votes polled.

There are a total of 2,14,834 voters in the constituency, having over 1 lakh female voters and 16 others.

4. Chittapur

Priyank Kharge, son of prominent Congress heavyweight Mallikarjun Kharge, will contest from Chittapur seat in Kalaburagi district in north Karnataka.

He would be looking to further consolidate his position from this assembly constituency, which has majority Lingayat voters.

Priyank's father won in the 2008 elections, with a margin of 17,442 votes (18.25 per cent), registering 52.16 per cent of the votes polled.

The young Kharge also won in 2013, with a margin of 31,191 votes (25.21 per cent) securing 56.08 per cent of the total votes polled.

Priyank is currently the Minister of State (MoS) for Information Technology (IT) and Tourism in Siddaramaiah's cabinet.

He is up against BJP's Valmik Naik. The JD(S), however, has not fielded any candidate for the Chittapur seat.

There are a total of 2,28,618 voters in the constituency. Of the total voters, over 1 lakh are female and 32 others.

5. B.T.M. Layout

A prominent locality in the southern part of Bengaluru city, former Karnataka Transport Minister and current Home Minister R. Ramalinga Reddy of the Congress is the incumbent MLA of this constituency.

The constituency falls on the Bengaluru Urban district of the Lok Sabha seat.

In 2013, Reddy won the BTM Layout seat with a margin of 49,048 votes (44.39 per cent), securing 63.1 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 53.43 per cent.

His daughter, Sowmya Reddy is contesting from the Jayanagar seat.

There are a total of 2,63,860 voters in the constituency, including more than 1.24 lakh female and 20 other voters.

6. Mandya

The Mandya constituency will be a keenly watched electoral battle as it has been termed as the "hotbed of Cauvery politics" by the media.

The agricultural lands in the district receive water from the Krishnarajasagara (KRS) Dam, built across Cauvery river. However, successive droughts have reduced the water level of the dam considerably.

Mandya has seen massive and violent protests over the sharing of Cauvery river water between the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

The Congress has fielded P. Ravikumar, who will lock horns with M. Srinivas of the JD(S) and N. Shivanna of the BJP.

In 2013 elections, popular Kannada actor Ambareesh won from this seat for Congress with a margin of 42,937 votes (28.1 per cent), securing 59.11 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 68.58 per cent.

In 2008, the JD(S) won the Mandya seat with a margin of 10,529 votes (8.11 percent) registering 36.39 per cent of the votes polled.

There are a total of 2,21,658 voters in the constituency. Among the total, over 1.1 lakh are female and 35 others voters.

7. Ramanagaram and Channapatna

Like Siddaramaiah, former chief minister and JD(S) heavyweight H.D. Kumaraswamy will be contesting from the constituencies of Ramanagaram and Channapatna respectively.

The decision by Kumaraswamy to contest from these two seats in Ramanagaram district is seen as an opportunity for the party to return to the centre stage of Karnataka politics.

In Ramanagaram, which is a predominant JD(S) seat, Kumaraswamy won in both 2008 and 2013 elections.

He will face Leelavathi of the BJP and Iqbal Hussain of the JD(S) from this seat.

In the 2013 elections, he defeated Congress candidate Maridevaru with a margin of 25,398 votes (17.08 per cent), securing 56.12 per cent of the total votes polled. The Ramanagaram constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 80.58 per cent.

In 2008, Kumaraswamy defeated BJP's M Rudresha with a margin of 47,260 votes.

There are a total of 2,05,031 voters in the constituency. Among them 1,02,978 female and 25 other voters.

In Channapatna, the JD(S) leader's wife Anitha Kumaraswamy lost to Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate, C.P. Yogeshwara in the 2013 elections, with a margin of 6,464 votes (3.84 per cent), securing 47.53 per cent of the total votes polled. The seat witnessed a voter turnout of 84.78 per cent.

This time, Kumaraswamy will contest from this seat, where he is locking horns with Yogeshwara and H.M Revanna of the Congress.

The constituency has a total of 2,16,448 voters, including 1,10,272 female and 9 others.

9. Shikaripura

Another constituency to watch out is the high-stake Shikaripura seat in central Karnataka, which will be contested by former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, who is also the BJP's chief ministerial candidate.

Very popular among the Lingayat community, Yeddyurappa would be hoping to win votes from the 50,000-strong community.

The former chief minister contesting the Karnataka polls has not gone down well with the Congress, claiming that the BJP was fielding tainted candidates, like Yeddyurappa.

It is to be noted that Yeddyurappa was credited for helping the BJP to win Karnataka elections in 2008, which was the first time the saffron party came to power in a southern state.

This time, the former chief minister will lock horns with Congress' Goni Malatesha and H.T. Balegar of the JD(S).

In 2013 elections, Yeddyurappa defeated H. S. Shantanna of the Congress with a margin of 24,425 votes (17.63 per cent) securing 49.89 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 80.24 per cent.

In 2008, he defeated former chief minister S. Bangarappa of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and erstwhile Congress and BJP leader with a margin of 45,927 votes (36.43 per cent), registering 66.22 per cent of the votes polled.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Karnataka election, essentially, is a triangular contest among the incumbent Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S)

The D-Day for the elections in Karnataka is here. In just a few hours, the 4.94-crore strong electorate will begin exercising their franchise to decide the fates of over 2500 candidates, contesting for 222 assembly seats. The Karnataka election, essentially, is a triangular contest among the incumbent Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S). The southern state of Karnataka is one of the three states, where Congress is still in power. The other being Punjab and Mizoram and a union territory, Puducherry. Siddaramaiah, the incumbent chief minister who is also leading the campaign in the state, is highly confident that Congress would retain the state and win with a huge majority. During the past few weeks, he has travelled extensively across the state, wooing voters, while lambasting the BJP for fielding tainted candidates in the high-stake elections. While, the BJP, led by star campaigner Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has left no stones unturned and campaigned extensively in various parts of the state. Not only he has cornered and attacked the Congress on numerous occasions, he has also promised to make a "Nava Karnataka" (New Karnataka) if the party wins. The third force in the state, the JD(S), led by former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, is also confident that his party would win enough seats to play a kingmaker role, if not from the government, in case the electorate throws up a fractured mandate. Here is a look at some of the key constituencies and key players: 1. Varuna The high-profile Varuna constituency in Mysuru district was supposed to see a neck-to-neck electoral fight between Siddaramaiah son's Dr. Yathindra and former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa's son, B.Y. Vijayendra. However, the sudden decision by the state BJP unit to not field Vijayendra has pulled the curtains on this big showdown. Siddaramaiah has been contesting from this constituency since 2008. However, he decided to pass on the baton to his son this time. Hence, the constituency would be still making news as Dr. Yathindra (37) will be making his political debut today. Yathindra is now fighting against BJP's Thotadappa Basavaraju and Abhishek S. Manegar of the JD(S). A Congress bastion, Siddaramaiah, in the last election, easily defeated Karnataka Jana Paksha's (KJP) Kapu Siddalingaswamy and Cheluvaraj of the JD(S) by a comfortable margin of 29,641 votes (18.45 per cent), securing 52.53 per cent of the total votes polled. The seat witnessed a voter turnout of 82.43 per cent. In 2008, Congress won with a margin of 18,837 votes (13.16 percent), getting polled by 50.23 per cent of the total voters. There are a total of 2,13,812 voters in the constituency, including over 1 lakh female and 13 other voters. 2. Chamundeshwari Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is fighting from this high-profile constituency and will be facing BJP's S.R. Gopalrao and G.T. Devegowda of the JD (S), a powerful face from the Vokkaliga community and an ex-mentor of the chief minister. Chamundeshwari in Mysuru district is named after the goddess who is worshipped with great fervour during the annual Dasara festival. In the previous two elections, the seat has either gone to the Congress (2008) or the JD (S) (2013). There are a total of 2,89,138 voters in the constituency. Among them over 1.42 lakh are female voters and 32 others. 3. Badami Badami, a tourist town in Bagalkot district in northern Karnataka is renowned for its cave temples. Siddaramaiah is contesting from this constituency and holds prominence here as it is dominated by the Kuruba community, a shepherd community to which the chief minister belongs. Winning the Badami and Chamundeshwari seats would help Siddaramaiah to again stake claim to the state's top post for second consecutive time, if the party wins the elections with a brute majority. The Karnataka Chief Minister is locking horns with B. Sriramulu of the BJP. In the 2013 elections, Congress won the Badami seat with a margin of 15,113 votes (10.87 per cent) securing 41.31 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency saw a voter turnout of 70.71 per cent. In 2008, however, the BJP won this constituency with a margin of 5,107 votes (4.29 per cent), receiving 44.85 per cent of the votes polled. There are a total of 2,14,834 voters in the constituency, having over 1 lakh female voters and 16 others. 4. Chittapur Priyank Kharge, son of prominent Congress heavyweight Mallikarjun Kharge, will contest from Chittapur seat in Kalaburagi district in north Karnataka. He would be looking to further consolidate his position from this assembly constituency, which has majority Lingayat voters. Priyank's father won in the 2008 elections, with a margin of 17,442 votes (18.25 per cent), registering 52.16 per cent of the votes polled. The young Kharge also won in 2013, with a margin of 31,191 votes (25.21 per cent) securing 56.08 per cent of the total votes polled. Priyank is currently the Minister of State (MoS) for Information Technology (IT) and Tourism in Siddaramaiah's cabinet. He is up against BJP's Valmik Naik. The JD(S), however, has not fielded any candidate for the Chittapur seat. There are a total of 2,28,618 voters in the constituency. Of the total voters, over 1 lakh are female and 32 others. 5. B.T.M. Layout A prominent locality in the southern part of Bengaluru city, former Karnataka Transport Minister and current Home Minister R. Ramalinga Reddy of the Congress is the incumbent MLA of this constituency. The constituency falls on the Bengaluru Urban district of the Lok Sabha seat. In 2013, Reddy won the BTM Layout seat with a margin of 49,048 votes (44.39 per cent), securing 63.1 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 53.43 per cent. His daughter, Sowmya Reddy is contesting from the Jayanagar seat. There are a total of 2,63,860 voters in the constituency, including more than 1.24 lakh female and 20 other voters. 6. Mandya The Mandya constituency will be a keenly watched electoral battle as it has been termed as the "hotbed of Cauvery politics" by the media. The agricultural lands in the district receive water from the Krishnarajasagara (KRS) Dam, built across Cauvery river. However, successive droughts have reduced the water level of the dam considerably. Mandya has seen massive and violent protests over the sharing of Cauvery river water between the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The Congress has fielded P. Ravikumar, who will lock horns with M. Srinivas of the JD(S) and N. Shivanna of the BJP. In 2013 elections, popular Kannada actor Ambareesh won from this seat for Congress with a margin of 42,937 votes (28.1 per cent), securing 59.11 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 68.58 per cent. In 2008, the JD(S) won the Mandya seat with a margin of 10,529 votes (8.11 percent) registering 36.39 per cent of the votes polled. There are a total of 2,21,658 voters in the constituency. Among the total, over 1.1 lakh are female and 35 others voters. 7. Ramanagaram and Channapatna Like Siddaramaiah, former chief minister and JD(S) heavyweight H.D. Kumaraswamy will be contesting from the constituencies of Ramanagaram and Channapatna respectively. The decision by Kumaraswamy to contest from these two seats in Ramanagaram district is seen as an opportunity for the party to return to the centre stage of Karnataka politics. In Ramanagaram, which is a predominant JD(S) seat, Kumaraswamy won in both 2008 and 2013 elections. He will face Leelavathi of the BJP and Iqbal Hussain of the JD(S) from this seat. In the 2013 elections, he defeated Congress candidate Maridevaru with a margin of 25,398 votes (17.08 per cent), securing 56.12 per cent of the total votes polled. The Ramanagaram constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 80.58 per cent. In 2008, Kumaraswamy defeated BJP's M Rudresha with a margin of 47,260 votes. There are a total of 2,05,031 voters in the constituency. Among them 1,02,978 female and 25 other voters. In Channapatna, the JD(S) leader's wife Anitha Kumaraswamy lost to Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate, C.P. Yogeshwara in the 2013 elections, with a margin of 6,464 votes (3.84 per cent), securing 47.53 per cent of the total votes polled. The seat witnessed a voter turnout of 84.78 per cent. This time, Kumaraswamy will contest from this seat, where he is locking horns with Yogeshwara and H.M Revanna of the Congress. The constituency has a total of 2,16,448 voters, including 1,10,272 female and 9 others. 9. Shikaripura Another constituency to watch out is the high-stake Shikaripura seat in central Karnataka, which will be contested by former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, who is also the BJP's chief ministerial candidate. Very popular among the Lingayat community, Yeddyurappa would be hoping to win votes from the 50,000-strong community. The former chief minister contesting the Karnataka polls has not gone down well with the Congress, claiming that the BJP was fielding tainted candidates, like Yeddyurappa. It is to be noted that Yeddyurappa was credited for helping the BJP to win Karnataka elections in 2008, which was the first time the saffron party came to power in a southern state. This time, the former chief minister will lock horns with Congress' Goni Malatesha and H.T. Balegar of the JD(S). In 2013 elections, Yeddyurappa defeated H. S. Shantanna of the Congress with a margin of 24,425 votes (17.63 per cent) securing 49.89 per cent of the total votes polled. The constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 80.24 per cent. In 2008, he defeated former chief minister S. Bangarappa of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and erstwhile Congress and BJP leader with a margin of 45,927 votes (36.43 per cent), registering 66.22 per cent of the votes polled.

Karnataka polls: Here are the key constituencies to watch out

After his<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/yeddyurappa-is-mentally-disturbed-says-karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah--136333"> comments on BJP's chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa</a>, Siddaramaiah has now targetted the party president Amit Shah and called him "a comedy show".&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said that they were not worried about&nbsp;losing the elections as Amit Shah is like "a comedy show and Modi's "image had drastically&nbsp;declined".

He said, " This Amit Shah is like a comedy show and Narendra Modi's image is drastically declined, his speeches are completely hollow and have made no impact on the voters of Karnataka. Therefore&nbsp;we are not worried."&nbsp;

Earlier the Congress leader Siddaramaiah&nbsp;had&nbsp;called BS Yeddyurappa ''mentally disturbed".&nbsp;

Dismissing&nbsp;the claims made by Yeddyurappa about his party winning 150 seats and forming the government in the state on May 17, Siddaramaiah called him "mentally disturbed".

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This Amit Shah is like a comedy show and Narendra Modi's image has drastically declined, his speeches are completely hollow and have made no impact on the voters of Karnataka. Therefore we are not worried: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElection2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElection2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/gmdl3lYlB6">pic.twitter.com/gmdl3lYlB6</a>
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&nbsp;

He said, 'This Amit Shah is like a comedy show and Narendra Modi's image is drastically declined, his speeches are completely hollow and have made no impact on the voters of Karnataka. Therefore we are not worried'

After his comments on BJP's chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa, Siddaramaiah has now targetted the party president Amit Shah and called him "a comedy show". He said that they were not worried about losing the elections as Amit Shah is like "a comedy show and Modi's "image had drastically declined". He said, " This Amit Shah is like a comedy show and Narendra Modi's image is drastically declined, his speeches are completely hollow and have made no impact on the voters of Karnataka. Therefore we are not worried." Earlier the Congress leader Siddaramaiah had called BS Yeddyurappa ''mentally disturbed". Dismissing the claims made by Yeddyurappa about his party winning 150 seats and forming the government in the state on May 17, Siddaramaiah called him "mentally disturbed". This Amit Shah is like a comedy show and Narendra Modi's image has drastically declined, his speeches are completely hollow and have made no impact on the voters of Karnataka. Therefore we are not worried: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah#KarnatakaElection2018 pic.twitter.com/gmdl3lYlB6 — ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2018 ×

'Amit Shah is like a comedy show': Siddaramaiah

In his final Karnataka poll pitch, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-making-fake-voter-ids-to-avoid-defeat-pm-modi-in-karnataka-135714">PM Modi speaking </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-making-fake-voter-ids-to-avoid-defeat-pm-modi-in-karnataka-135714">live</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-making-fake-voter-ids-to-avoid-defeat-pm-modi-in-karnataka-135714"> on the Namo app</a> said the BJP is committed towards the welfare of SC/STs and OBCs, adding that his party is working towards making Ambedkar's vision a reality.

"India is the second largest skill producer," PM Modi told voters in Karnataka through the Namo app on the last day of campaigning in Karnataka. "There are 99 cities in India set to become smart cities,"&nbsp;he added.

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BJP has the highest number of MPs belonging to SC & ST communities. More and more people of these communities are connecting with BJP: PM Narendra Modi to SC/ST/OBC and Slum Morcha Karyakartas of Karnataka BJP <a href="https://t.co/n4IBfnh2vl">pic.twitter.com/n4IBfnh2vl</a>
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The state will go to the poll on Saturday with results to be declared on May, 15th.

"People from SC/ST are joining the BJP in huge numbers,"&nbsp;he said, adding,"BJP has the&nbsp;maximum number of SC/STs and OBCs."

"We have made strict provisions in the SC/ST Act," he told voters in Karnataka. The BJP is committed towards the welfare of SC/STs, he said.

Taking a dig at the Congress, the PM asked what has the Congress done for Ambedkar? The prime minister said his party is fostering Ambedkar's vision.

"The BJP is working for the upliftment of the Dalits," he said. "Tribal people are supporting our development plans,"&nbsp;he informed voters in Karnataka.

On the growing push of technology, the prime minister informed voters that the country is the 2nd largest mobile phone holders and also the second highest steel producers in the world.

NDA government&nbsp;has made 2.25 crores toilets in the country, he said as part of the Swach&nbsp;Bharat&nbsp;campaign.

BJP's motto is to achieve equality for all, PM Modi said.

BJP has the maximum number of SC/STs and OBCs, PM Modi said

In his final Karnataka poll pitch, PM Modi speaking live on the Namo app said the BJP is committed towards the welfare of SC/STs and OBCs, adding that his party is working towards making Ambedkar's vision a reality. "India is the second largest skill producer," PM Modi told voters in Karnataka through the Namo app on the last day of campaigning in Karnataka. "There are 99 cities in India set to become smart cities," he added. BJP has the highest number of MPs belonging to SC & ST communities. More and more people of these communities are connecting with BJP: PM Narendra Modi to SC/ST/OBC and Slum Morcha Karyakartas of Karnataka BJP pic.twitter.com/n4IBfnh2vl — ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2018 × The state will go to the poll on Saturday with results to be declared on May, 15th. "People from SC/ST are joining the BJP in huge numbers," he said, adding,"BJP has the maximum number of SC/STs and OBCs." "We have made strict provisions in the SC/ST Act," he told voters in Karnataka. The BJP is committed towards the welfare of SC/STs, he said. Taking a dig at the Congress, the PM asked what has the Congress done for Ambedkar? The prime minister said his party is fostering Ambedkar's vision. "The BJP is working for the upliftment of the Dalits," he said. "Tribal people are supporting our development plans," he informed voters in Karnataka. On the growing push of technology, the prime minister informed voters that the country is the 2nd largest mobile phone holders and also the second highest steel producers in the world. NDA government has made 2.25 crores toilets in the country, he said as part of the Swach Bharat campaign. BJP's motto is to achieve equality for all, PM Modi said.

In final Karnataka poll push, PM Modi reaches out to SC/STs & OBCs via Namo app

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-mother-more-indian-than-many-rahul-gandhi-135937">vitriol-filled campaign</a> for the Karnataka Assembly elections ended today with top leaders of the BJP and Congress, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, making a last-gasp effort to sway the voters in a likely cliffhanger.

From corruption to communalism, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's Rs 70 lakh Hublot watch, to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's foreign origin, the electoral potboiler had it all.

Like all state polls since he assumed the reins of power in New Delhi, Modi helmed the BJP's adrenaline-charged campaign despite the party having declared B S Yeddyurappa its chief ministerial candidate, while Rahul Gandhi helmed that of the Congress.

Though Modi remained out of the electoral scene for a long time after addressing a public meeting in February, he launched a blitzkrieg on May 1, addressing over a score of rallies in his bid to wrest the key southern state, which BJP chief Amit Shah dubbed as the party's "gateway to south", from the Congress.

Always high on energy during elections, he adddressed at least three rallies every day when he was in Karnataka, or else interacted with workers of the BJP's different frontal organisations through the 'Namo App'.

Though development remained part of the political discourse, it was overtaken by a slanging match between the two parties over corruption.

The prime minister and Amit Shah raised the issue of the killing of RSS and BJP workers by SDPI, a radical Islamist political party floated by the Popular Front of India, which Modi said was the "abc of communalism".

Shah claimed two of the candidates fielded by the Congress were, in fact, members of the SDPI.

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On day one of his campaign, Modi raked up the issue of Sonia's foreign origin at an election rally where he dared the Congress chief to speak for 15 minutes about the achievements of the Karnataka government in any language, including his "mother's mother tongue".

An emotional Rahul Gandhi hit back today at a press conference where he said,"My mother is an Italian. She has lived the larger part of her life in India. She is more Indian than many, many Indians I have seen."

Modi repeatedly addressed the Siddaramaiah ministry as "seedha rupaiah government (a government that takes bribes for work) and "10 per cent commission government".

Provoked, Siddaramaiah first called the Modi dispensation a "90 per cent commission government" and then served legal notices to Modi and Shah, demanding an apology and threatening to file Rs 100 crore civil and criminal defamation suit if they did not tender it.

Rally after election rally, Rahul Gandhi targeted BJP's chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa over corruption when he helmed the state while BJP was in power between 2008 and 2013.

"Will Modi ji tell the people of Karnataka why a man who spent time in jail for corruption is the BJP's CM candidate? Why the BJP has given 8 tickets to Reddy brothers and their associates who looted Rs 35,000 crore from the people of Karnataka?" he asked, as he sought to paint the saffron party into a corner.

The Congress president frequently referred to fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi in his speeches, alleging the government allowed him to flee the country after defrauding the Punjab National Bank fraud.

Modi, who has powered the BJP to victory after victory in Assembly polls in states in the last four years, also invoked nationalism and B R Ambedkar, after he was in the Congress president's firing line over a string of attacks on Dalits. He slammed the Congress for raising questions about the Army's surgical strikes in PoK.

Though Modi did not campaign in Karnataka today, he addressed BJP's SC/ST/OBC and Slum Morcha workers through his Namo App and said, "There is no place for dalits and backward classes in the heart of the Congress." He accused the Congress of "insulting" Ambedkar, a Dalit icon.

Sonia Gandhi, who avoided the rough and tumble of elections for two years after she was taken ill during a roadshow in Varanasi ahead of the Uttar Pradesh polls, also addressed a rally in the Lingayat stronghold of

Vijayapura where she said "Modi is possessed by the devil of 'Congress mukt Bharat' (bhoot lag gaya hai)".

Apart from Shah, who vigourously campaigned across the state over the last two months, the BJP fielded its Hindutva mascot Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who toured the communally sensitive coastal belt of Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada district.

Adityanath exhorted electors to elect a government that can protect people from "jihadi" forces.

After Rahul Gandhi publicly declared he was ready to become the prime minister if Congress emerged as the single largest party, Modi mocked him, calling him a "dynast" and wondering whether the nation will accept him as its leader.

The campaign was hit by a "fake" voter ID card scandal in it dying moments, but election officials said those appeared to be genuine.

Nearly 10,000 cards were recovered from a flat in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency on Tuesday, setting off a war of words between the Congress and BJP, with each alleging the owner of the apartment owed allegiance to the rival party.

The contentious issue of the Siddaramaiah government recommending religious minority status for the numerically strong Lingayat community took a back seat as the two parties appeared unsure about its electoral fallout.

Opinion polls and surveys have projected a thriller of a contest, with neither BJP nor the Congress getting a majority on its own and the JD(S) of former prime minister H D Deve Gowda playing the kingmaker.

Polling for 223 seats of the 224-member Assembly will be held on May 12. Election for the Jayanagar seat was countermanded after the death of the sitting BJP MLA and its candidate B N Jayakumar. Results will be declared on May 15.&nbsp;

Like Gujarat before it, the campaign for Karnataka has been rough and ugly with a number of personal attacks from either side. The results will be out on May 15

The vitriol-filled campaign for the Karnataka Assembly elections ended today with top leaders of the BJP and Congress, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, making a last-gasp effort to sway the voters in a likely cliffhanger. From corruption to communalism, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's Rs 70 lakh Hublot watch, to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's foreign origin, the electoral potboiler had it all. Like all state polls since he assumed the reins of power in New Delhi, Modi helmed the BJP's adrenaline-charged campaign despite the party having declared B S Yeddyurappa its chief ministerial candidate, while Rahul Gandhi helmed that of the Congress. Though Modi remained out of the electoral scene for a long time after addressing a public meeting in February, he launched a blitzkrieg on May 1, addressing over a score of rallies in his bid to wrest the key southern state, which BJP chief Amit Shah dubbed as the party's "gateway to south", from the Congress. Always high on energy during elections, he adddressed at least three rallies every day when he was in Karnataka, or else interacted with workers of the BJP's different frontal organisations through the 'Namo App'. Though development remained part of the political discourse, it was overtaken by a slanging match between the two parties over corruption. The prime minister and Amit Shah raised the issue of the killing of RSS and BJP workers by SDPI, a radical Islamist political party floated by the Popular Front of India, which Modi said was the "abc of communalism". Shah claimed two of the candidates fielded by the Congress were, in fact, members of the SDPI. Opinion polls and surveys have projected a thriller of a contest, with neither BJP nor the Congress getting a majority on its own and the JD(S) of former prime minister H D Deve Gowda playing the kingmaker × On day one of his campaign, Modi raked up the issue of Sonia's foreign origin at an election rally where he dared the Congress chief to speak for 15 minutes about the achievements of the Karnataka government in any language, including his "mother's mother tongue". An emotional Rahul Gandhi hit back today at a press conference where he said,"My mother is an Italian. She has lived the larger part of her life in India. She is more Indian than many, many Indians I have seen." Modi repeatedly addressed the Siddaramaiah ministry as "seedha rupaiah government (a government that takes bribes for work) and "10 per cent commission government". Provoked, Siddaramaiah first called the Modi dispensation a "90 per cent commission government" and then served legal notices to Modi and Shah, demanding an apology and threatening to file Rs 100 crore civil and criminal defamation suit if they did not tender it. Rally after election rally, Rahul Gandhi targeted BJP's chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa over corruption when he helmed the state while BJP was in power between 2008 and 2013. "Will Modi ji tell the people of Karnataka why a man who spent time in jail for corruption is the BJP's CM candidate? Why the BJP has given 8 tickets to Reddy brothers and their associates who looted Rs 35,000 crore from the people of Karnataka?" he asked, as he sought to paint the saffron party into a corner. The Congress president frequently referred to fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi in his speeches, alleging the government allowed him to flee the country after defrauding the Punjab National Bank fraud. Modi, who has powered the BJP to victory after victory in Assembly polls in states in the last four years, also invoked nationalism and B R Ambedkar, after he was in the Congress president's firing line over a string of attacks on Dalits. He slammed the Congress for raising questions about the Army's surgical strikes in PoK. Though Modi did not campaign in Karnataka today, he addressed BJP's SC/ST/OBC and Slum Morcha workers through his Namo App and said, "There is no place for dalits and backward classes in the heart of the Congress." He accused the Congress of "insulting" Ambedkar, a Dalit icon. Sonia Gandhi, who avoided the rough and tumble of elections for two years after she was taken ill during a roadshow in Varanasi ahead of the Uttar Pradesh polls, also addressed a rally in the Lingayat stronghold of Vijayapura where she said "Modi is possessed by the devil of 'Congress mukt Bharat' (bhoot lag gaya hai)". Apart from Shah, who vigourously campaigned across the state over the last two months, the BJP fielded its Hindutva mascot Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who toured the communally sensitive coastal belt of Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada district. Adityanath exhorted electors to elect a government that can protect people from "jihadi" forces. After Rahul Gandhi publicly declared he was ready to become the prime minister if Congress emerged as the single largest party, Modi mocked him, calling him a "dynast" and wondering whether the nation will accept him as its leader. The campaign was hit by a "fake" voter ID card scandal in it dying moments, but election officials said those appeared to be genuine. Nearly 10,000 cards were recovered from a flat in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency on Tuesday, setting off a war of words between the Congress and BJP, with each alleging the owner of the apartment owed allegiance to the rival party. The contentious issue of the Siddaramaiah government recommending religious minority status for the numerically strong Lingayat community took a back seat as the two parties appeared unsure about its electoral fallout. Opinion polls and surveys have projected a thriller of a contest, with neither BJP nor the Congress getting a majority on its own and the JD(S) of former prime minister H D Deve Gowda playing the kingmaker. Polling for 223 seats of the 224-member Assembly will be held on May 12. Election for the Jayanagar seat was countermanded after the death of the sitting BJP MLA and its candidate B N Jayakumar. Results will be declared on May 15.

Vitriol-filled campaign for Karnataka ends, elections on May 12

Bickering allies the BJP and the Shiv Sena are heading for an electoral showdown in Maharashtra's Palghar Lok Sabha constituency where bypoll will be held on May 28.

The BJP won the Palghar (ST) constituency, adjoining Mumbai, in 2014, but the death of its sitting MP Chintaman Wanga earlier this year necessitated the by-election.

The Shiv Sena has fielded Chintaman Wanga's son Shrinivas Wanga from the seat, while the BJP has nominated former Congress leader Rajendra Gavit, minutes after he joined the saffron party.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis slammed the Shiv Sena for fielding Shrinivas Wanga against the BJP.

In a setback to the BJP, Shrinivas Wanga and other members of his family joined the Uddhav Thackeray-led party last week.

Shrinivas Wanga today submitted his nomination papers to election officials. He was accompanied by senior Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra Minister Eknath Shinde.

On the other hand, Gavit, a former Congress MLA and minister, today joined the BJP in the presence of Fadnavis and the party's state president Raosaheb Danve.

Later, Fadnavis and Danve announced the nomination of Gavit, a tribal leader, as the BJP candidate from Palghar.

Besides Palghar, another Lok Sabha constituency in the state, Bhandara-Gondia, will witness bypoll on May 28. The bypoll has been necessitated following the resignation of sitting BJP MP Nana Patole.

Patole quit the BJP and also his Lok Sabha seat after accusing the NDA government of following "anti-farmer" policies.

On Gavit's joining the BJP, Fadnavis said, "We were in touch with Rajendra Gavit for a long time, but he could not join the BJP before the October 2014 assembly elections."

Speaking to reporters, he expressed disappointment over the Shiv Sena fielding Shrinivas Wanga from the seat.

"The Shiv Sena should not have done this. Late Chintaman Wanga strengthened the BJP in Palghar and now his son is contesting on a Shiv Sena ticket. If the BJP loses this election, late Wanga will not forgive us," the chief minister said.

"Palghar is the BJP's seat and late Chintaman Wanga had worked hard for the party's growth in Palghar. It will be a true tribute to Wanga if the BJP wins the bypoll," he said.

"I had personally communicated to the Shiv Sena on who is going to be our candidate. Still, the Sena went ahead and made Shrinivas Wanga join the party and then fielded him against the BJP," Fadnavis said.

The BJP has not yet decided its candidate for the Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seat, the chief minister said.

Commenting on the further strain in the BJP-Sena ties over the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll, Fadnavis said, "What they did is very unfortunate. We did not field any candidate against the Shiv Sena in the recently held by-election to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)."

Danve, too, criticised the Uddhav Thackeray-led party.

"The Shiv Sena should not forget that in Bandra Assembly bypoll (in 2015), the BJP had supported the Sena. We wanted to give ticket to someone from the Wanga family for the Palghar bypoll.

"Not a single BJP worker has gone with the Wanga family (and joined the Sena). They are still with us and I am sure our candidate will win the Palghar seat," Danve said.

Chintaman Wanga was a popular figure and Shiv Sena leaders had earlier said that their party would support the BJP, if it fields someone from his family.

Fadnavis had also admitted a few days ago that some BJP leaders were in favour of fielding a member of the Wanga family from Palghar.

"It looks like the BJP was not very keen on fielding someone from the Wanga family and hence, they approached us," a Shiv Sena leader said.

Earlier, the Palghar by-election was seen as a cakewalk for the BJP, assuming the party will give ticket to someone from the Wanga family.

However, the contest got a new twist with Shrinivas Wanga entering the poll fray as the Shiv Sena's candidate.

Speaking separately, Shiv Sena spokesperson Manisha Kayande said party chief Uddhav Thackeray decided to nominate Shrinivas Wanga for the bypoll.

"When they (Chintaman Wanga's family) joined the Shiv Sena, they did so not only as a mark of support to our Hindutva agenda but also to the development plank on which the Sena is fighting elections," she told.

On the late BJP leader's kin joining the Shiv Sena, Fadnavis said the family had some "misunderstanding".

Reacting to it, Kayande said if the BJP was keen on nominating a member of the Wanga family, it could have done so long back.

"The chief minister's talk about misunderstanding sounds hollow," she said.

The Shiv Sena is part of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and also in Maharashtra. However, it often criticises their programmes and policies.

Earlier this year, Thackeray had announced that his party will contest all future polls on its own.

As per a poll pact between the Congress and the NCP, the former will contest the Palghar seat while the latter will field its candidate in Bhandara-Gondia.

However, the parties are yet to announce their respective candidates.&nbsp

The BJP won the Palghar (ST) constituency, adjoining Mumbai, in 2014, but the death of its sitting MP Chintaman Wanga earlier this year necessitated the by-election.

Bickering allies the BJP and the Shiv Sena are heading for an electoral showdown in Maharashtra's Palghar Lok Sabha constituency where bypoll will be held on May 28. The BJP won the Palghar (ST) constituency, adjoining Mumbai, in 2014, but the death of its sitting MP Chintaman Wanga earlier this year necessitated the by-election. The Shiv Sena has fielded Chintaman Wanga's son Shrinivas Wanga from the seat, while the BJP has nominated former Congress leader Rajendra Gavit, minutes after he joined the saffron party. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis slammed the Shiv Sena for fielding Shrinivas Wanga against the BJP. In a setback to the BJP, Shrinivas Wanga and other members of his family joined the Uddhav Thackeray-led party last week. Shrinivas Wanga today submitted his nomination papers to election officials. He was accompanied by senior Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra Minister Eknath Shinde. On the other hand, Gavit, a former Congress MLA and minister, today joined the BJP in the presence of Fadnavis and the party's state president Raosaheb Danve. Later, Fadnavis and Danve announced the nomination of Gavit, a tribal leader, as the BJP candidate from Palghar. Besides Palghar, another Lok Sabha constituency in the state, Bhandara-Gondia, will witness bypoll on May 28. The bypoll has been necessitated following the resignation of sitting BJP MP Nana Patole. Patole quit the BJP and also his Lok Sabha seat after accusing the NDA government of following "anti-farmer" policies. On Gavit's joining the BJP, Fadnavis said, "We were in touch with Rajendra Gavit for a long time, but he could not join the BJP before the October 2014 assembly elections." Speaking to reporters, he expressed disappointment over the Shiv Sena fielding Shrinivas Wanga from the seat. "The Shiv Sena should not have done this. Late Chintaman Wanga strengthened the BJP in Palghar and now his son is contesting on a Shiv Sena ticket. If the BJP loses this election, late Wanga will not forgive us," the chief minister said. "Palghar is the BJP's seat and late Chintaman Wanga had worked hard for the party's growth in Palghar. It will be a true tribute to Wanga if the BJP wins the bypoll," he said. "I had personally communicated to the Shiv Sena on who is going to be our candidate. Still, the Sena went ahead and made Shrinivas Wanga join the party and then fielded him against the BJP," Fadnavis said. The BJP has not yet decided its candidate for the Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seat, the chief minister said. Commenting on the further strain in the BJP-Sena ties over the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll, Fadnavis said, "What they did is very unfortunate. We did not field any candidate against the Shiv Sena in the recently held by-election to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)." Danve, too, criticised the Uddhav Thackeray-led party. "The Shiv Sena should not forget that in Bandra Assembly bypoll (in 2015), the BJP had supported the Sena. We wanted to give ticket to someone from the Wanga family for the Palghar bypoll. "Not a single BJP worker has gone with the Wanga family (and joined the Sena). They are still with us and I am sure our candidate will win the Palghar seat," Danve said. Chintaman Wanga was a popular figure and Shiv Sena leaders had earlier said that their party would support the BJP, if it fields someone from his family. Fadnavis had also admitted a few days ago that some BJP leaders were in favour of fielding a member of the Wanga family from Palghar. "It looks like the BJP was not very keen on fielding someone from the Wanga family and hence, they approached us," a Shiv Sena leader said. Earlier, the Palghar by-election was seen as a cakewalk for the BJP, assuming the party will give ticket to someone from the Wanga family. However, the contest got a new twist with Shrinivas Wanga entering the poll fray as the Shiv Sena's candidate. Speaking separately, Shiv Sena spokesperson Manisha Kayande said party chief Uddhav Thackeray decided to nominate Shrinivas Wanga for the bypoll. "When they (Chintaman Wanga's family) joined the Shiv Sena, they did so not only as a mark of support to our Hindutva agenda but also to the development plank on which the Sena is fighting elections," she told. On the late BJP leader's kin joining the Shiv Sena, Fadnavis said the family had some "misunderstanding". Reacting to it, Kayande said if the BJP was keen on nominating a member of the Wanga family, it could have done so long back. "The chief minister's talk about misunderstanding sounds hollow," she said. The Shiv Sena is part of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and also in Maharashtra. However, it often criticises their programmes and policies. Earlier this year, Thackeray had announced that his party will contest all future polls on its own. As per a poll pact between the Congress and the NCP, the former will contest the Palghar seat while the latter will field its candidate in Bhandara-Gondia. However, the parties are yet to announce their respective candidates.

Battleground Palghar: Shiv Sena, BJP face-off in LS bypoll

The CPI(M) on Tuesday strongly denied reports that it has joined hands with the BJP in run-up to the panchayat polls in West Bengal, and blamed ruling Trinamool Congress for spreading such "motivated rumours".

Earlier in the day, it was reported that arch-rivals BJP and the CPI(M) have joined hands at the grassroots level in Nadia district to defeat the TMC in the upcoming panchayat polls in the state.

Party General Secretary Sitaram Yechury took to Twitter to dismiss such reports and said the TMC instead of spreading "lies and canards", should answer why the CBI was "going slow" in its investigation on Narada, Sarada and Rose valley scams unless it has an underhand deal with the BJP.

"Utter lies and rumours spread by TMC to distract from the violence it has unleashed on the Left Front cadres. We categorically deny any such understanding and remain opposed to both the BJP and TMC," Yechury tweeted.

In another tweet, he said, "Motivated rumours, canards and lies are being spread by TMC which has a deal with BJP on communal polarisation and on saving its corrupt. Biman Bose (Left front chairman) has denied any understanding with the BJP and we stand firm in our opposition to both TMC and BJP".

"All drama. BJP and TMC are two sides of the same coin," Yechury tweeted.&nbsp

A district level CPI(M) leader in Nadia had said the party had to opt for seat adjustment with the BJP in many seats as several villagers wanted a one-on-one fight against the TMC.

The CPI(M), with an opposite ideology to that of the BJP, never loses an opportunity to describe the saffron party as a "divisive force".

CPI(M) Nadia district secretary and state committee member Sumit De said there have been adjustments at the grassroots level.

It has nothing to do with the party's policy, he added.

"Yes, there have been adjustments at the grassroot level. In many seats as the villagers had wanted a one-on-one fight, we had to respect it and act accordingly. But it is not that there have been several rounds of discussions between parties and it is a formal seat-sharing adjustment," De told.

Earlier in the day, it was reported that arch-rivals BJP and the CPI(M) have joined hands at the grassroots level in Nadia district to defeat the TMC in the upcoming panchayat polls in the state.

The CPI(M) on Tuesday strongly denied reports that it has joined hands with the BJP in run-up to the panchayat polls in West Bengal, and blamed ruling Trinamool Congress for spreading such "motivated rumours". Earlier in the day, it was reported that arch-rivals BJP and the CPI(M) have joined hands at the grassroots level in Nadia district to defeat the TMC in the upcoming panchayat polls in the state. Party General Secretary Sitaram Yechury took to Twitter to dismiss such reports and said the TMC instead of spreading "lies and canards", should answer why the CBI was "going slow" in its investigation on Narada, Sarada and Rose valley scams unless it has an underhand deal with the BJP. "Utter lies and rumours spread by TMC to distract from the violence it has unleashed on the Left Front cadres. We categorically deny any such understanding and remain opposed to both the BJP and TMC," Yechury tweeted. In another tweet, he said, "Motivated rumours, canards and lies are being spread by TMC which has a deal with BJP on communal polarisation and on saving its corrupt. Biman Bose (Left front chairman) has denied any understanding with the BJP and we stand firm in our opposition to both TMC and BJP". "All drama. BJP and TMC are two sides of the same coin," Yechury tweeted. A district level CPI(M) leader in Nadia had said the party had to opt for seat adjustment with the BJP in many seats as several villagers wanted a one-on-one fight against the TMC. The CPI(M), with an opposite ideology to that of the BJP, never loses an opportunity to describe the saffron party as a "divisive force". CPI(M) Nadia district secretary and state committee member Sumit De said there have been adjustments at the grassroots level. It has nothing to do with the party's policy, he added. "Yes, there have been adjustments at the grassroot level. In many seats as the villagers had wanted a one-on-one fight, we had to respect it and act accordingly. But it is not that there have been several rounds of discussions between parties and it is a formal seat-sharing adjustment," De told.

CPI-M denies report on joining hands with BJP ahead of WB panchayat polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that making fake voter ID cards to win elections is a "tactic of Congress", and that "people should never forgive such a party".&nbsp;

Modi was referring to the close to 10,000 fake voter ID cards recovered from a flat in Bengaluru last night. The Congress has since alleged that the raid was stage-managed by the BJP and that the flat's owner and tenant are both BJP leaders.&nbsp;

"Making multiple fake voter ID cards to win elections is the tactic of Congress. People should never forgive such party. Fearing a crushing defeat, Congress is indulging in all kinds of malpractices," Modi said at an election rally in Chikkamagaluru.&nbsp;

He then went on to attack Congress President Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

"Throughout the day, a Congress leader thinks only about one thing — <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-rahul-gandhi-ready-to-be-pm-why-not-says-congress-president-135428">how to be the prime minister</a>? If this isn't arrogance, then what is?" Modi asked.&nbsp;

He then <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-rahul-gandhi-speak-for-15-minutes-pm-modi-at-karnataka-rally-133953">continued with his </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-rahul-gandhi-speak-for-15-minutes-pm-modi-at-karnataka-rally-133953">naamdaar</a> (dynast) versus kaamdaar (worker) jibe.&nbsp;

"The naamdaar of Congress keeps getting promoted even if he doesn't do anything," Modi said.&nbsp;

"He was made General Secretary of the party in 2007. He said he'll make a young team and bring new ideas. It has been 11 years and things are still what they used to be," he added.&nbsp;

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Congress only wants to remain in power. In '78, Indira Ji came here, took your votes but never cared for people of this region. Congress never thought about welfare of people of Chikmagalur. Sonia Ji too contested from Bellari, but what happened to promises made here?: PM Modi <a href="https://t.co/Rm7xyS1CHf">pic.twitter.com/Rm7xyS1CHf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/994137322730983424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Owner of the flat (in Jalahalli, where voter IDs were found) is Manjula Nanjamari, she was BJP corporator from '97-'02 & continues to be prominent leader of BJP. In last 24 hours she has been disowned by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> BJP in-charge Prakash Javadekar: Randeep Surjewala, Congress <a href="https://t.co/ERcpBLYUUx">pic.twitter.com/ERcpBLYUUx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/994172382204997633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Last night raid was stage managed by BJP which is using huge amounts of cash & resources which are at BJP's disposal to influence voters & elections. It wasn't EC or police but BJP people who raided flat which belongs to BJP leader & the tenant is also a BJP leader: Anand Sharma <a href="https://t.co/NDLoAQqufE">pic.twitter.com/NDLoAQqufE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/994127614766927877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Modi was referring to the close to 10,000 fake voter ID cards recovered from a flat in Bengaluru last night. The Congress has since alleged that the raid was stage-managed by the BJP and that the flat's owner and tenant are both BJP leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that making fake voter ID cards to win elections is a "tactic of Congress", and that "people should never forgive such a party". Modi was referring to the close to 10,000 fake voter ID cards recovered from a flat in Bengaluru last night. The Congress has since alleged that the raid was stage-managed by the BJP and that the flat's owner and tenant are both BJP leaders. "Making multiple fake voter ID cards to win elections is the tactic of Congress. People should never forgive such party. Fearing a crushing defeat, Congress is indulging in all kinds of malpractices," Modi said at an election rally in Chikkamagaluru. He then went on to attack Congress President Rahul Gandhi. "Throughout the day, a Congress leader thinks only about one thing — how to be the prime minister? If this isn't arrogance, then what is?" Modi asked. He then continued with his naamdaar (dynast) versus kaamdaar (worker) jibe. "The naamdaar of Congress keeps getting promoted even if he doesn't do anything," Modi said. "He was made General Secretary of the party in 2007. He said he'll make a young team and bring new ideas. It has been 11 years and things are still what they used to be," he added. Congress only wants to remain in power. In '78, Indira Ji came here, took your votes but never cared for people of this region. Congress never thought about welfare of people of Chikmagalur. Sonia Ji too contested from Bellari, but what happened to promises made here?: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/Rm7xyS1CHf — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018 × Owner of the flat (in Jalahalli, where voter IDs were found) is Manjula Nanjamari, she was BJP corporator from '97-'02 & continues to be prominent leader of BJP. In last 24 hours she has been disowned by #Karnataka BJP in-charge Prakash Javadekar: Randeep Surjewala, Congress pic.twitter.com/ERcpBLYUUx — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018 × Last night raid was stage managed by BJP which is using huge amounts of cash & resources which are at BJP's disposal to influence voters & elections. It wasn't EC or police but BJP people who raided flat which belongs to BJP leader & the tenant is also a BJP leader: Anand Sharma pic.twitter.com/NDLoAQqufE — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018 ×

Congress making fake voter IDs to avoid defeat: PM Modi in Karnataka

Congress president <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnatakas-most-wanted-rahul-gandhi-fires-fresh-salvo-at-pm-modi-134769">Rahul Gandhi today jumped </a>into the debate linking him to take over India's top political office.

While interacting with eminent citizens <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-manifesto-is-poorly-crafted-fantasy-rahul-gandhi-134632">at a hotel in Bengaluru as part</a> of his Karnataka election campaign, a person asked him: if Congress emerges as the single largest party in 2019, then Mr Gandhi, will you be the prime ministerial candidate?

To this, Rahul Gandhi promptly replied: Why not.

Rahul had taken over as the president of the Congress party last year after his mother Sonia Gandhi stepped down due to ill health and over growing calls to make the young Gandhi scion as the head of the grand old party.

Rahul was elected as MP of Amethi in 2004 when the UPA swept to power beating the BJP-led NDA during the general elections surprising the then PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The Congress president hasn't held a national-level political office and kept himself out of the Cabinet during UPA's ten-year tenure at the Centre.

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The Congress president hasn't held a national-level political office and kept himself out of the Cabinet during UPA's ten-year tenure at the Centre.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today jumped into the debate linking him to take over India's top political office. While interacting with eminent citizens at a hotel in Bengaluru as part of his Karnataka election campaign, a person asked him: if Congress emerges as the single largest party in 2019, then Mr Gandhi, will you be the prime ministerial candidate? To this, Rahul Gandhi promptly replied: Why not. Rahul had taken over as the president of the Congress party last year after his mother Sonia Gandhi stepped down due to ill health and over growing calls to make the young Gandhi scion as the head of the grand old party. Rahul was elected as MP of Amethi in 2004 when the UPA swept to power beating the BJP-led NDA during the general elections surprising the then PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Congress president hasn't held a national-level political office and kept himself out of the Cabinet during UPA's ten-year tenure at the Centre.

Is Rahul Gandhi ready to be PM? Why not, says Congress president

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said "it's a clear fight in Karnataka".&nbsp;

A fight between "clean vs dirty politics", between the "mafia vs people ".&nbsp;

The allusion was to the BJP fielding the controversial Reddy brothers in the upcoming Karnataka elections.&nbsp;

The BJP has fielded G Somashekhara Reddy from Ballari city, and his elder brother and former Ballari Lok Sabha member G Karunakara Reddy from Harappanahalli in Davanagere district.

The politically-influential Reddy brothers have often been associated with the iron ore mafia.&nbsp;

"It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People," Rahul tweeted Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He also asked for contributions for the Congress' candidates to help take on the financial might of the Reddy brothers.&nbsp;

"With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution," Rahul tweeted.&nbsp;

Karnataka goes to the polls on May 12. The results will be out on May 15.&nbsp;

All eyes are on the election, which is being seen as a harbinger of what might happen in the 2019&nbsp;general elections.&nbsp;

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It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People. With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CleanPoliticswithINC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CleanPoliticswithINC</a><a href="https://t.co/D6zkzjxAgH">https://t.co/D6zkzjxAgH</a>
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'With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution,' Rahul tweeted Tuesday

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said "it's a clear fight in Karnataka". A fight between "clean vs dirty politics", between the "mafia vs people ". The allusion was to the BJP fielding the controversial Reddy brothers in the upcoming Karnataka elections. The BJP has fielded G Somashekhara Reddy from Ballari city, and his elder brother and former Ballari Lok Sabha member G Karunakara Reddy from Harappanahalli in Davanagere district. The politically-influential Reddy brothers have often been associated with the iron ore mafia. "It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People," Rahul tweeted Tuesday. He also asked for contributions for the Congress' candidates to help take on the financial might of the Reddy brothers. "With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution," Rahul tweeted. Karnataka goes to the polls on May 12. The results will be out on May 15. All eyes are on the election, which is being seen as a harbinger of what might happen in the 2019 general elections. It's a clear fight in Karnataka. Clean Politics vs Dirty Politics. Mafia vs People. With the BJP fielding the corrupt Reddy gang, we are trying a novel approach to fund our candidate. Support our candidate by making a contribution.#CleanPoliticswithINChttps://t.co/D6zkzjxAgH — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 8, 2018 ×

'It's a clear fight in Karnataka,' says Rahul. 'Clean vs Dirty Politics, Mafia vs People'

PM Modi took another potshot at the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-pm-modi-addresses-bjp-youth-workers-via-namo-app-135050">Congress during the Karnataka </a>election campaign in Vijayapura, asserting that the people will vote against the grand old party in the polls due this week.

"People have decided to remove Congress from Karnataka," PM Modi said, adding that the Congress has given up on the state.

The prime minister has been<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-dubs-congress-a-deal-party-says-no-one-can-save-it-134996"> attacking Congress over </a>the last several days ever since he took up the BJP's poll campaign on May 1st.

"Congress is dividing communities and spreading hatred," the prime minister told people at the rally. PM Modi also took up the plight of the farmers blaming the Congress for "ignoring" them.

"Karnataka ministers were in Delhi during the famine," he said, adding that people will punish the "Congress for its sins."

"Congress believes in divide and rule and his only looking to make excuses," he declared.

Earlier, while replying to a question from a person at a hotel in Bengaluru on whether he would take up the prime ministership if the Congress emerges as the single largest party in the 2019 general elections, Rahul Gandhi had emphatically said: "why not".

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PM Modi also took up the plight of the farmers blaming the Congress for "ignoring" them.

PM Modi took another potshot at the Congress during the Karnataka election campaign in Vijayapura, asserting that the people will vote against the grand old party in the polls due this week. "People have decided to remove Congress from Karnataka," PM Modi said, adding that the Congress has given up on the state. The prime minister has been attacking Congress over the last several days ever since he took up the BJP's poll campaign on May 1st. "Congress is dividing communities and spreading hatred," the prime minister told people at the rally. PM Modi also took up the plight of the farmers blaming the Congress for "ignoring" them. "Karnataka ministers were in Delhi during the famine," he said, adding that people will punish the "Congress for its sins." "Congress believes in divide and rule and his only looking to make excuses," he declared. Earlier, while replying to a question from a person at a hotel in Bengaluru on whether he would take up the prime ministership if the Congress emerges as the single largest party in the 2019 general elections, Rahul Gandhi had emphatically said: "why not".

Karnataka ministers were in Delhi during famine, says PM Modi during Karnataka election rally

With violence and unrest continuing in Jammu and Kashmir, Congress leader P Chidambaram today asked Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti to quit the PDP-BJP coalition government saying the “unholy” alliance was the gravest provocation to the people of the Valley.&nbsp

In a series of tweets, the former Home and Finance Minister claimed the “muscular and militaristic” approach of the central government has driven the state towards the present “catastrophic” situation.

“Mehbooba Mufti should break her party’s unholy and opportunistic coalition with the BJP. And go back to the philosophy of her father. “The PDP-BJP coalition is the gravest provocation to the people of the Kashmir valley. Mehboobaji, &nbspquit the coalition immediately and go back to the people,” he said.

Chidambaram said he shared the Jammu and Kashmir chief minister’s concern that statesmanship required to get the state out of the vicious cycle of killings but it was sad that she does not see that her coalition government is the core of the problem. “The central government’s muscular, militaristic approach to the J&K issue has driven the state towards the present catastrophic situation,” he said.

Mehbooba yesterday had urged the national leadership to show the element of compassion and display the statesmanship to get Jammu and Kashmir out of this “vicious cycle of killings”. A tourist from Chennai died yesterday after he was hit on the head by a stone during a protest on the outskirts of Srinagar.

Five Hizbul Mujahideen militants, including an assistant professor of the Kashmir University, were killed in an encounter in the Valley on Sunday. Five civilians, who were staging protests near the encounter site, were also killed in clashes with security forces.

With violence and unrest continuing in Jammu and Kashmir, Congress leader P Chidambaram today asked Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti to quit the PDP-BJP coalition government saying the "unholy" alliance was the gravest provocation to the people of the Valley.

With violence and unrest continuing in Jammu and Kashmir, Congress leader P Chidambaram today asked Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti to quit the PDP-BJP coalition government saying the “unholy” alliance was the gravest provocation to the people of the Valley. In a series of tweets, the former Home and Finance Minister claimed the “muscular and militaristic” approach of the central government has driven the state towards the present “catastrophic” situation. “Mehbooba Mufti should break her party’s unholy and opportunistic coalition with the BJP. And go back to the philosophy of her father. “The PDP-BJP coalition is the gravest provocation to the people of the Kashmir valley. Mehboobaji, &nbspquit the coalition immediately and go back to the people,” he said. Chidambaram said he shared the Jammu and Kashmir chief minister’s concern that statesmanship required to get the state out of the vicious cycle of killings but it was sad that she does not see that her coalition government is the core of the problem. “The central government’s muscular, militaristic approach to the J&K issue has driven the state towards the present catastrophic situation,” he said. Mehbooba yesterday had urged the national leadership to show the element of compassion and display the statesmanship to get Jammu and Kashmir out of this “vicious cycle of killings”. A tourist from Chennai died yesterday after he was hit on the head by a stone during a protest on the outskirts of Srinagar. Five Hizbul Mujahideen militants, including an assistant professor of the Kashmir University, were killed in an encounter in the Valley on Sunday. Five civilians, who were staging protests near the encounter site, were also killed in clashes with security forces.

Mehbooba Mufti should quit ‘unholy’ alliance with BJP: P Chidamabaram

&nbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi will on Monday interact with the Karnataka's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Yuva Morcha Karyakartas (workers) via the Narendra Modi (NaMo) App.

Prime Minister Modi took to Twitter and said, "On Monday, 7th May, at 9 AM I look forward to an interaction with @BJP4Karnataka Yuva Morcha Karyakartas via the NaMo App. Our young and energetic Karyakartas are doing commendable work at the grassroots level and popularising the good work of the Central Government among people."

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On Monday, 7th May, at 9 AM I look forward to an interaction with <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Karnataka</a> Yuva Morcha Karyakartas via the NaMo App. Our young and energetic Karyakartas are doing commendable work at the grassroots level and popularising the good work of the Central Government among people.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/992793991144984577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday,&nbspFiring a barrage of barbs at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsplabelled it as a "deal party" that was being uprooted from all over the country and said no one can save it now.

Taking BJP's campaign in poll-bound Karnataka to full throttle, he also accused Congress of "distorting history" as part of a conspiracy to divide society, as he addressed four back-to-back rallies at Chitradurga, Raichur, Jamkhandi and Hubbali in north Karnataka.

Hitting back at Congress for levelling "baseless" charges against BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa,Modi reminded it about the National Herald case in which "the mother and son (Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi) are facing allegations of a scam" and are on bail.

Earlier on May 1, Prime Minister Modi had interacted with Kisan Morcha Karyakartas of BJP's state unit, via the NaMo App, and boosted their morale.

On a related note, Prime Minister Modi kick started a series of election rallies in the poll-bound state on May 1 and held three rallies on the first day alone.

Karnataka will go to polls on May 12 to elect its representatives for the 225-member assembly. The results will be out on May 15.

Karnataka will go to polls on May 12 to elect its representatives for the 225-member assembly. The results will be out on May 15

&nbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi will on Monday interact with the Karnataka's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Yuva Morcha Karyakartas (workers) via the Narendra Modi (NaMo) App. Prime Minister Modi took to Twitter and said, "On Monday, 7th May, at 9 AM I look forward to an interaction with @BJP4Karnataka Yuva Morcha Karyakartas via the NaMo App. Our young and energetic Karyakartas are doing commendable work at the grassroots level and popularising the good work of the Central Government among people." On Monday, 7th May, at 9 AM I look forward to an interaction with @BJP4Karnataka Yuva Morcha Karyakartas via the NaMo App. Our young and energetic Karyakartas are doing commendable work at the grassroots level and popularising the good work of the Central Government among people. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 5, 2018 × On Sunday,&nbspFiring a barrage of barbs at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsplabelled it as a "deal party" that was being uprooted from all over the country and said no one can save it now. Taking BJP's campaign in poll-bound Karnataka to full throttle, he also accused Congress of "distorting history" as part of a conspiracy to divide society, as he addressed four back-to-back rallies at Chitradurga, Raichur, Jamkhandi and Hubbali in north Karnataka. Hitting back at Congress for levelling "baseless" charges against BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa,Modi reminded it about the National Herald case in which "the mother and son (Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi) are facing allegations of a scam" and are on bail. Earlier on May 1, Prime Minister Modi had interacted with Kisan Morcha Karyakartas of BJP's state unit, via the NaMo App, and boosted their morale. On a related note, Prime Minister Modi kick started a series of election rallies in the poll-bound state on May 1 and held three rallies on the first day alone. Karnataka will go to polls on May 12 to elect its representatives for the 225-member assembly. The results will be out on May 15.

PM Modi to address Karnataka BJP workers through NaMo app today

Following controversy over the BJP’s Dalit outreach programmes in Uttar Pradesh, the BSP has decided to hold ‘chaupals’ or village meetings across the state to expose what is calls the “anti-Dalit face” of the saffron party.

“BSP leaders including coordinators and office bearers will be moving out to villages all over the state to hold chaupals to apprise all, especially the Dalits, about the anti-people and anti-Dalit steps being taken by the BJP government,” a senior BSP leader said.

“Dalits are angry over the manner in which a mockery is being made out by the Uttar Pradesh ministers visiting villages, taking their own food and water and showing to the world that they are dining in Dalit households,” he said, adding that their drama is getting exposed with every passing day.

“While one minister carries food and water with him and dines as if he is attending a feast, the other minister claims that they are spending nights in villages braving mosquito bites… these BJP leaders are only exposing their real mindset not only towards Dalits but also towards the villagers and their lifestyle.

“On our part, we will organise chaupals and interact with the villagers at the grass-roots level and apprise them of the reality of this government,” he told PTI, requesting anonymity.

“Our leaders will tell the people as to how the BJP’s so-called pro-Dalit stance is a farce and designed only for its petty electoral gains. BJP leaders are carrying out a drama of sharing meals with Dalits in their homes but the food that they take is brought from other places as they do not want to eat the meal prepared by a Dalit in his house,” he said.

Since BSP chief Mayawati is currently busy in Karnataka polls, the chaupal programme will take shape only next month, he said. The BSP leadership has already alerted its office bearers and coordinators to keep a close watch on the BJPs “sahbhoj” (community feast) programmes.

BSP men have also been asked to prepare a list of events where the BJP leaders have shown disrespect during their outreach programme by ordering food, crockery or water from outside or any of them making statements which hurt the sentiments of Dalits, he said.

The BSP will also take this opportunity to refresh the memory of Dalits on various cases of atrocities on them during the BJP government by recalling incidents during the Bharat bandh against the dilution of SC/ST Act and lynching of Dalits among others and how the government has been lax in taking action against the culprits, he added.

"Dalits are angry over the manner in which a mockery is being made out by the Uttar Pradesh ministers visiting villages, taking their own food and water and showing to the world that they are dining in Dalit households," a senior BSP leader said, adding that their drama is getting exposed with every passing day

Following controversy over the BJP’s Dalit outreach programmes in Uttar Pradesh, the BSP has decided to hold ‘chaupals’ or village meetings across the state to expose what is calls the “anti-Dalit face” of the saffron party. “BSP leaders including coordinators and office bearers will be moving out to villages all over the state to hold chaupals to apprise all, especially the Dalits, about the anti-people and anti-Dalit steps being taken by the BJP government,” a senior BSP leader said. “Dalits are angry over the manner in which a mockery is being made out by the Uttar Pradesh ministers visiting villages, taking their own food and water and showing to the world that they are dining in Dalit households,” he said, adding that their drama is getting exposed with every passing day. “While one minister carries food and water with him and dines as if he is attending a feast, the other minister claims that they are spending nights in villages braving mosquito bites… these BJP leaders are only exposing their real mindset not only towards Dalits but also towards the villagers and their lifestyle. “On our part, we will organise chaupals and interact with the villagers at the grass-roots level and apprise them of the reality of this government,” he told PTI, requesting anonymity. “Our leaders will tell the people as to how the BJP’s so-called pro-Dalit stance is a farce and designed only for its petty electoral gains. BJP leaders are carrying out a drama of sharing meals with Dalits in their homes but the food that they take is brought from other places as they do not want to eat the meal prepared by a Dalit in his house,” he said. Since BSP chief Mayawati is currently busy in Karnataka polls, the chaupal programme will take shape only next month, he said. The BSP leadership has already alerted its office bearers and coordinators to keep a close watch on the BJPs “sahbhoj” (community feast) programmes. BSP men have also been asked to prepare a list of events where the BJP leaders have shown disrespect during their outreach programme by ordering food, crockery or water from outside or any of them making statements which hurt the sentiments of Dalits, he said. The BSP will also take this opportunity to refresh the memory of Dalits on various cases of atrocities on them during the BJP government by recalling incidents during the Bharat bandh against the dilution of SC/ST Act and lynching of Dalits among others and how the government has been lax in taking action against the culprits, he added.

BSP decides to hold village meetings to expose BJP’s ‘anti-Dalit face’

"Congress had an eco-system of looting. Jan Dhan-Aadhaar & Mobile number (JAM) trinity of our government has stopped leakages. No wonder Congress is angry at me and abusing me. Congress is worried that if we come to power in Karnataka, they will face difficulty in looting the poor," said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Modi was addressing a rally in Karnataka's Raichur ahead of upcoming assembly elections.

Praising his government's Jan Dhan-Aadhaar & Mobile number (JAM) initiative, he said&nbsp;Congress is worried about facing difficulties in looting the poor after BJP wins the elections

"When Sonia Gandhi's government was in power, LED bulb used to be sold at Rs 350. Now in our government, the bulb are being sold at Rs 50. Where were the extra Rs 300 spent", he added.

He also targetted the Congress over the series of disruptions that the Parliament underwent in the last session and blamed the Congress for having an Anti-Dalit and OBC mindset.

He said, "Congress owes an explanation to the nation on why it is not letting Parliament function. Anti-Dalit and anti-OBC mindset of the Congress is the reason why the party is stalling Parliament and not allowing the creation of the OBC commission".

The Karnataka Government must give an account of the work they have done for the people of the state. Instead, all they do is- Modi, Modi, Modi. They just keep abusing me".

There are many people who are sitting in AC rooms and saying there will be a hung assembly. I want to tell them to come to Raichur and see the mood on the ground.

While addressing another rally in Jamakhandi, PM Modi attacked the Congress for supporting the JNU sloganeering in 2016.

He said, "Some people feel uncomfortable when patriotism, nationalism, national song are discussed. Congress faced such downfall that its leaders started giving blessings to people who raised slogans of 'Bharat tere tukde honge' and demanded proofs of surgical strikes from Army."

"Congress' forgot even Bhagwan Basaveshwara, but started recalling his name when Karnataka Elections 2018 came near. It was during Atal Ji's leadership, that a statue of Bhagwaan Basaveshwara was put up in the Parliament".

"To win or to lose is a part of elections. One must accept their defeat. But Congress leaders are 'Naamdaars'. They didn't congratulate us 'Kaamdaars'. Such is their arrogance that they didn't even pay a courtesy call to President upon his win". 
&nbsp;

PM Modi said, 'Congress had an eco-system of looting. Jan Dhan-Aadhaar and Mobile number (JAM) trinity of our government has stopped leakages. No wonder Congress is angry at me and abusing me. Congress is worried that if we come to power in Karnataka, they will face difficulty in looting the poor'

"Congress had an eco-system of looting. Jan Dhan-Aadhaar & Mobile number (JAM) trinity of our government has stopped leakages. No wonder Congress is angry at me and abusing me. Congress is worried that if we come to power in Karnataka, they will face difficulty in looting the poor," said Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi was addressing a rally in Karnataka's Raichur ahead of upcoming assembly elections. Praising his government's Jan Dhan-Aadhaar & Mobile number (JAM) initiative, he said Congress is worried about facing difficulties in looting the poor after BJP wins the elections "When Sonia Gandhi's government was in power, LED bulb used to be sold at Rs 350. Now in our government, the bulb are being sold at Rs 50. Where were the extra Rs 300 spent", he added. He also targetted the Congress over the series of disruptions that the Parliament underwent in the last session and blamed the Congress for having an Anti-Dalit and OBC mindset. He said, "Congress owes an explanation to the nation on why it is not letting Parliament function. Anti-Dalit and anti-OBC mindset of the Congress is the reason why the party is stalling Parliament and not allowing the creation of the OBC commission". The Karnataka Government must give an account of the work they have done for the people of the state. Instead, all they do is- Modi, Modi, Modi. They just keep abusing me". There are many people who are sitting in AC rooms and saying there will be a hung assembly. I want to tell them to come to Raichur and see the mood on the ground. While addressing another rally in Jamakhandi, PM Modi attacked the Congress for supporting the JNU sloganeering in 2016. He said, "Some people feel uncomfortable when patriotism, nationalism, national song are discussed. Congress faced such downfall that its leaders started giving blessings to people who raised slogans of 'Bharat tere tukde honge' and demanded proofs of surgical strikes from Army." "Congress' forgot even Bhagwan Basaveshwara, but started recalling his name when Karnataka Elections 2018 came near. It was during Atal Ji's leadership, that a statue of Bhagwaan Basaveshwara was put up in the Parliament". "To win or to lose is a part of elections. One must accept their defeat. But Congress leaders are 'Naamdaars'. They didn't congratulate us 'Kaamdaars'. Such is their arrogance that they didn't even pay a courtesy call to President upon his win".

Karnataka polls: Modi says Congress worried about facing difficulties in looting poor after defeat

Firing a barrage of barbs at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today labelled it as a "deal party" that was being uprooted from all over the country and said no one can save it now.

Taking the BJP's campaign in poll-bound Karnataka to full throttle, he also accused the Congress of "distorting history" as part of a conspiracy to divide the society.

At poll rallies in Chitradurga and Raichur, he flayed the Congress government led by Siddaramaiah for celebrating the "jayantis of sultans" (birth anniversaries of Muslim rulers) for the sake of "vote bank politics".

He was apparently referring to the Siddaramaiah government's controversial decision of celebrating "Tipu Jayanti" every year on November 10, commemorating Tipu Sultan, the legendary 18th-century ruler of Mysore.

Modi accused the Congress of protecting the corrupt, adopting a divide-and-rule policy, making false promises and having no agenda other than "abusing Modi."

Listing out a string of electoral defeats of the Congress, including those in Maharashtra and Tripura, he said, "From every corner of the country, the Congress has gone".

"...And in Karnataka?" he asked the crowd, which said the Congress will be ousted from power in the southern state as well.

"Now they cannot survive. No one can save the Congress now. For 70 years they have misled and befooled the people," Modi said, as he continued his campaign blitz across Karnataka where the party is heavily banking on him.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The state goes to polls on May 12. The counting of votes will take place on May 15.

At his rally in Chitradurga, Modi, while referring to corruption charges against a minister without naming him, said, "The Congress is a party that neither has dil (heart) nor is it pro-Dalit. It is a deal party."

Targeting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the prime minister said he always keeps character certificates ready in his suitcase. "Whenever an allegation of corruption against a minister is made, he immediately takes out a character certificate, writes the name and tells the people he is honest.

"The time has come to bid farewell to the Congress party that is not interested in your welfare. Make it a clean sweep for the BJP and send this chief minister home as he only goes around giving clean chits," Modi told the crowd.

Accusing the Congress of sidelining stalwarts like B R Ambedkar and undivided Congress president and former Karnataka chief minister S Nijalingappa, he said the party was interested in promoting only one family and naming "thousands of schemes" after them.

At Raichur, he said the Congress' "new mantra is spreading lies".

The Congress has realised its "vote bank politics is shaken" and, therefore, it has started a campaign for "misleading and spreading lies" among Dalits, and asked them to be aware, Modi said.

The prime minister accused the Congress of not allowing parliament to function because it feared he was "gaining the trust of the people by completing his works successfully one after the other".

He said the Karnataka elections were a contest between the Congress' "misdeeds and people's aspirations".

"On one side is the BJP with the mantra of 'sab ka saath sab ka vikaas (together with all development for all). On the other side is the Congress party that believes in doing everything for one family," he said.

While the BJP was fighting against the corrupt system, the Congress protects the corrupt, he alleged. The BJP was progressing in politics with the"blessings of people", while the Congress was dividing people, creating rift between brothers and following a divide-and-rule policy, Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The prime minister asked the Congress to give an account of its work in Karnataka in the last five years.

"From morning till evening they just say Modi, Modi, Modi. Other than abusing Modi in this election is there any agenda for the Congress? The time has come to see off such a Congress party," he said.

Taking the BJP's campaign in poll-bound Karnataka to full throttle, he also accused the Congress of "distorting history" as part of a conspiracy to divide the society.

Firing a barrage of barbs at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today labelled it as a "deal party" that was being uprooted from all over the country and said no one can save it now. Taking the BJP's campaign in poll-bound Karnataka to full throttle, he also accused the Congress of "distorting history" as part of a conspiracy to divide the society. At poll rallies in Chitradurga and Raichur, he flayed the Congress government led by Siddaramaiah for celebrating the "jayantis of sultans" (birth anniversaries of Muslim rulers) for the sake of "vote bank politics". He was apparently referring to the Siddaramaiah government's controversial decision of celebrating "Tipu Jayanti" every year on November 10, commemorating Tipu Sultan, the legendary 18th-century ruler of Mysore. Modi accused the Congress of protecting the corrupt, adopting a divide-and-rule policy, making false promises and having no agenda other than "abusing Modi." Listing out a string of electoral defeats of the Congress, including those in Maharashtra and Tripura, he said, "From every corner of the country, the Congress has gone". "...And in Karnataka?" he asked the crowd, which said the Congress will be ousted from power in the southern state as well. "Now they cannot survive. No one can save the Congress now. For 70 years they have misled and befooled the people," Modi said, as he continued his campaign blitz across Karnataka where the party is heavily banking on him. The state goes to polls on May 12. The counting of votes will take place on May 15. At his rally in Chitradurga, Modi, while referring to corruption charges against a minister without naming him, said, "The Congress is a party that neither has dil (heart) nor is it pro-Dalit. It is a deal party." Targeting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the prime minister said he always keeps character certificates ready in his suitcase. "Whenever an allegation of corruption against a minister is made, he immediately takes out a character certificate, writes the name and tells the people he is honest. "The time has come to bid farewell to the Congress party that is not interested in your welfare. Make it a clean sweep for the BJP and send this chief minister home as he only goes around giving clean chits," Modi told the crowd. Accusing the Congress of sidelining stalwarts like B R Ambedkar and undivided Congress president and former Karnataka chief minister S Nijalingappa, he said the party was interested in promoting only one family and naming "thousands of schemes" after them. At Raichur, he said the Congress' "new mantra is spreading lies". The Congress has realised its "vote bank politics is shaken" and, therefore, it has started a campaign for "misleading and spreading lies" among Dalits, and asked them to be aware, Modi said. The prime minister accused the Congress of not allowing parliament to function because it feared he was "gaining the trust of the people by completing his works successfully one after the other". He said the Karnataka elections were a contest between the Congress' "misdeeds and people's aspirations". "On one side is the BJP with the mantra of 'sab ka saath sab ka vikaas (together with all development for all). On the other side is the Congress party that believes in doing everything for one family," he said. While the BJP was fighting against the corrupt system, the Congress protects the corrupt, he alleged. The BJP was progressing in politics with the"blessings of people", while the Congress was dividing people, creating rift between brothers and following a divide-and-rule policy, Modi said. The prime minister asked the Congress to give an account of its work in Karnataka in the last five years. "From morning till evening they just say Modi, Modi, Modi. Other than abusing Modi in this election is there any agenda for the Congress? The time has come to see off such a Congress party," he said.

Karnataka polls: Modi dubs Congress a 'deal party', says no one can save it

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