Chief minister<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-trails-by-over-11000-votes-in-chamundeshwari--136911"> Siddaramaiah fortunes took a </a>U-turn on Tuesday morning as he trails by over 13,000 votes in Chamundeshwari and by over 400 votes in Badami.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-karnataka-election-results-counting-underway-as-bjp-congress-wait-for-results-136866">Also See: Live Karnataka election leads: Congress: 57 | BJP: 121 | JD(S)+: 42</a>

The chief minister who was widely expected to retain at least one seat is now struggling to keep both his constituencies with him. Siddaramaiah's fortunes mirrors the Congress which has failed to keep up with the BJP, ahead in just 59 seats.

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This is a historic win for BJP. I want to thank all the people of Karnataka for voting for us. Ab desh mein Congress khojo abhiyan chalega, kahaan rahegi pata nahi: Raman Singh, CM of Chhattisgarh. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fc9tao6paN">pic.twitter.com/Fc9tao6paN</a>
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Congress has managed to garner Dalit votes but failed to appeal to larger voters of the state despite being in power for the last five years.

JD(S) on the other hand has played to its strength ahead in 40 seats currently leading in southern Karnataka.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BZKCtcMT-NA" width="560"></iframe>

BJP has got the arithmetic right yet again winning in rural seats including in coastal belt wining over Lingayat seats.

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JD(S) on the other hand has played to its strength ahead in 40 seats currently leading in southern Karnataka.

Chief minister Siddaramaiah fortunes took a U-turn on Tuesday morning as he trails by over 13,000 votes in Chamundeshwari and by over 400 votes in Badami. Also See: Live Karnataka election leads: Congress: 57 | BJP: 121 | JD(S)+: 42 The chief minister who was widely expected to retain at least one seat is now struggling to keep both his constituencies with him. Siddaramaiah's fortunes mirrors the Congress which has failed to keep up with the BJP, ahead in just 59 seats. This is a historic win for BJP. I want to thank all the people of Karnataka for voting for us. Ab desh mein Congress khojo abhiyan chalega, kahaan rahegi pata nahi: Raman Singh, CM of Chhattisgarh. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/Fc9tao6paN — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × Congress has managed to garner Dalit votes but failed to appeal to larger voters of the state despite being in power for the last five years. JD(S) on the other hand has played to its strength ahead in 40 seats currently leading in southern Karnataka. BJP has got the arithmetic right yet again winning in rural seats including in coastal belt wining over Lingayat seats.

Karnataka elections: Siddaramaiah slides as BJP marches ahead; JD(S) dominates south

Expressing his concern over the results of the Karnataka election, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that the results have brought down the Muslim representation in the assembly.

He said,&nbsp;"&nbsp;Karnataka assembly results have brought down Muslim representation in the Assembly and this should be the cause of concern for every political party which believes&nbsp;in diversity and pluralism".&nbsp;

He also extended wishes to JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for his party's victory. He said, "&nbsp;Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to his predecessors".

The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the Congress and BJP but the Congress offered it its support to the party. The Congress also offered&nbsp;the JD(S) the option to pick a chief minister of its choice.&nbsp;

The two parties can form a coalition government in the state after the Governor's approval.&nbsp;

The results of the Karnataka assembly election were announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)&nbsp;in 37, and Others 3.&nbsp;

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I spoke Mr <a href="https://twitter.com/hd_kumaraswamy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hd_kumaraswamy</a> & congratulated him for his party’s victory & Alliance I am sure as CM Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to other predecessors & inshallah Karnataka will progress under his leadership
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He also extended wishes to JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for his party's victory. He said, 'Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to his predecessors'

Expressing his concern over the results of the Karnataka election, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that the results have brought down the Muslim representation in the assembly. He said, " Karnataka assembly results have brought down Muslim representation in the Assembly and this should be the cause of concern for every political party which believes in diversity and pluralism". He also extended wishes to JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for his party's victory. He said, " Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to his predecessors". The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the Congress and BJP but the Congress offered it its support to the party. The Congress also offered the JD(S) the option to pick a chief minister of its choice. The two parties can form a coalition government in the state after the Governor's approval. The results of the Karnataka assembly election were announced on Tuesday. Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S) in 37, and Others 3. I spoke Mr @hd_kumaraswamy & congratulated him for his party’s victory & Alliance I am sure as CM Kumaraswamy will discharge his constitutional responsibility in a better way as compared to other predecessors & inshallah Karnataka will progress under his leadership — Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) May 15, 2018 ×

'Karnataka results have brought Muslim representation down in the state': AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi

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?

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala Tuesday evening, and staked his claim to forming a government in the state.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy was accompanied by the Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, and former Karnataka chief minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-offers-crown-to-foe-kumaraswamy-years-after-expulsion-from-jds-137139">Siddaramaiah</a>.&nbsp;

The Congress told Vala that it was offering the JD(S) unconditional support.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-does-a-goa-in-karnataka-137130">Congress does to BJP in Karnataka what latter did to it in Goa</a>

The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the Congress and BJP but the Congress offered it its support earlier in the day, telling the JD(S) that it could pick a chief minister of its choice.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy decided to opt for the post himself.&nbsp;

Baiju Narajan of the JD(S) meanwhile said the Congress's G Parameshwara would be the deputy chief minister.&nbsp;

The two parties, should they be invited by Governor Vala to do so, will now form a coalition government in the state.&nbsp;

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)

The halfway mark then is 111 seats, with a party needing 112 seats for a simple majority.&nbsp;

Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3.&nbsp;

That would give the JD(S)-Congress combine a total of 115 seats.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-offers-outside-support-to-jds-to-form-government-in-karnataka-reports-137018">'Doing everything to keep BJP out of power,' says JD(S)</a>

The BJP by itself on the other hand is short of 9 seats.&nbsp;

But the race for Karnataka is far from over.&nbsp;

The BJP's chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa got to the Raj Bhavan just before Kumaraswamy.&nbsp;

"Just now we met governor because we are single largest party, and that he allows us to prove majority in the Assembly," Yeddyurappa said after meeting Vala.&nbsp;

On his way to meeting the governor, &nbsp;Yeddyurappa said "100 per cent we will form the government."&nbsp;

All eyes then are now on Governor Vala.&nbsp;

Vala can now call either the JD(S)-Congress combine to form a government, or the BJP, which has emerged as the single-largest party — whichever combine/ party he thinks will provide the state with a stable government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Remember that in both Goa and Manipur, where elections were held in 2017, the Congress had emerged as the single-largest party. But the BJP ended up forming coalition governments in both states because the Congress was not able to muster up the needed numbers.&nbsp;

A Zee News report quoting sources though said Tuesday evening that the governor may first invite BJP's Yeddyurappa to form a&nbsp;government in Karnataka and that the oath-taking ceremony is likely to take place on May 17.

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Vala can now call either the JD(S)-Congress combine to form a government, or the BJP, which has emerged as the single-largest party — whichever combine/ party he thinks will provide the state with a stable government.

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy met Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala Tuesday evening, and staked his claim to forming a government in the state. Kumaraswamy was accompanied by the Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah. The Congress told Vala that it was offering the JD(S) unconditional support. Also read: Congress does to BJP in Karnataka what latter did to it in Goa The JD(S) has won fewer seats than both the Congress and BJP but the Congress offered it its support earlier in the day, telling the JD(S) that it could pick a chief minister of its choice. Kumaraswamy decided to opt for the post himself. Baiju Narajan of the JD(S) meanwhile said the Congress's G Parameshwara would be the deputy chief minister. The two parties, should they be invited by Governor Vala to do so, will now form a coalition government in the state. Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.) The halfway mark then is 111 seats, with a party needing 112 seats for a simple majority. Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3. That would give the JD(S)-Congress combine a total of 115 seats. Also read: 'Doing everything to keep BJP out of power,' says JD(S) The BJP by itself on the other hand is short of 9 seats. But the race for Karnataka is far from over. The BJP's chief ministerial candidate Yeddyurappa got to the Raj Bhavan just before Kumaraswamy. "Just now we met governor because we are single largest party, and that he allows us to prove majority in the Assembly," Yeddyurappa said after meeting Vala. On his way to meeting the governor, Yeddyurappa said "100 per cent we will form the government." All eyes then are now on Governor Vala. Vala can now call either the JD(S)-Congress combine to form a government, or the BJP, which has emerged as the single-largest party — whichever combine/ party he thinks will provide the state with a stable government. Remember that in both Goa and Manipur, where elections were held in 2017, the Congress had emerged as the single-largest party. But the BJP ended up forming coalition governments in both states because the Congress was not able to muster up the needed numbers. A Zee News report quoting sources though said Tuesday evening that the governor may first invite BJP's Yeddyurappa to form a government in Karnataka and that the oath-taking ceremony is likely to take place on May 17.

JD(S)'s Kumaraswamy, BJP's Yeddyurappa stake claim to form Karnataka govt; all eyes now on Governor

The JD(S) said Tuesday that it was doing "doing everything to keep BJP out of power" in Karnataka after the Congress offered it support to form a government in the state.&nbsp;

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"Congress has extended its support, we have accepted it. We will jointly go to meet governor after 5.30 pm today," ANI quoted JD(S) spokesman Danish Ali as saying.&nbsp;

The Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad had announced earlier on Tuesday that his party had offered&nbsp;support to the JD(S).&nbsp;

"We had a telephonic conversation with Deve Gowda ji&nbsp;and Kumaraswamy. They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together," Azad said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)

The halfway mark then is 112 seats.&nbsp;

Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3.&nbsp;

That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 115 seats.&nbsp;

News reports had said earlier that former Congress President Sonia Gandhi had spoken&nbsp;with Ghulam Nabi Azad, who then spoke with JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy.&nbsp;

Azad said he had told Gowda and Kumaraswamy that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-case-of-hung-verdict-both-siddaramaiah--yeddyurappa-may-have-to-give-up-karnataka-cm-ambitions-136655">picking of a chief minister</a> would be left to them.&nbsp;

Should the JD(S) accept the Congress' offer, it is expected that Kumaraswamy will take the CM's post.&nbsp;

The Congress' KC Venugopal meanwhile said the JD(S) and Congress would together meet the governor in the evening today to stake their claim to forming a government in the state.&nbsp;

&nbsp;What happens next will depend&nbsp;on the governor, Vajubhai Vala. Vala was appointed by the Modi government four years ago.&nbsp;&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>
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We (Congress & JDS) are jointly meeting the Governor in the evening today: KC Venugopal, Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/jUd5cVaSNu">pic.twitter.com/jUd5cVaSNu</a>
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News reports Tuesday meanwhile said the BJP too had reached out to Deve Gowda.&nbsp;

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JP Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan & Prakash Javadekar are going to Bengaluru today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996329945793155072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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JD(S) had always maintained that HD Kumaraswamy will be CM. As per results, we're doing everything to keep BJP out of power. Congress has extended its support, we have accepted it. We will jointly go to meet Governor after 5.30 pm today: Danish Ali, JD(S) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/qCfgOhGM9t">pic.twitter.com/qCfgOhGM9t</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996330925909725184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad said the picking of a chief minister would be left to the JD(S)

The JD(S) said Tuesday that it was doing "doing everything to keep BJP out of power" in Karnataka after the Congress offered it support to form a government in the state. × "Congress has extended its support, we have accepted it. We will jointly go to meet governor after 5.30 pm today," ANI quoted JD(S) spokesman Danish Ali as saying. The Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad had announced earlier on Tuesday that his party had offered support to the JD(S). "We had a telephonic conversation with Deve Gowda ji and Kumaraswamy. They have accepted our offer. Hopefully, we will be together," Azad said. Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.) The halfway mark then is 112 seats. Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3. That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 115 seats. News reports had said earlier that former Congress President Sonia Gandhi had spoken with Ghulam Nabi Azad, who then spoke with JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy. Azad said he had told Gowda and Kumaraswamy that the picking of a chief minister would be left to them. Should the JD(S) accept the Congress' offer, it is expected that Kumaraswamy will take the CM's post. The Congress' KC Venugopal meanwhile said the JD(S) and Congress would together meet the governor in the evening today to stake their claim to forming a government in the state. What happens next will depend on the governor, Vajubhai Vala. Vala was appointed by the Modi government four years ago. 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 × We (Congress & JDS) are jointly meeting the Governor in the evening today: KC Venugopal, Congress. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/jUd5cVaSNu — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × News reports Tuesday meanwhile said the BJP too had reached out to Deve Gowda. JP Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan & Prakash Javadekar are going to Bengaluru today. #KarnatakaElections2018 — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × JD(S) had always maintained that HD Kumaraswamy will be CM. As per results, we're doing everything to keep BJP out of power. Congress has extended its support, we have accepted it. We will jointly go to meet Governor after 5.30 pm today: Danish Ali, JD(S) #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/qCfgOhGM9t — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 ×

'Doing everything to keep BJP out of power,' says JD(S)

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

As the ballot boxes in Karnataka today, the fate of Congress chief minister Siddaramaiah and BJP's CM face Yeddyurappa will be decided by voters who exercised their franchise on Saturday.

On Saturday, the voter turnout in Karnataka was 72.36 which was a record, however, exit polls predict it would be a hung assembly.

The state which saw a heated poll campaign in the last two months between the BJP and the Congress became a battle of nerves as PM Modi joined the campaign trail in the last leg on May 1st addressing rallies in over 20 locations.

Although the Indian prime minister focused his campaign on Rahul Gandhi and the Congress, attacking Siddaramaiah's performance in the last five years, the country will finally get to know the verdict of the voters on Tuesday.

Siddaramaiah in his last tweet on May 9th had called on voters to pick "peace, stability & progress", asserting that his government had ensured a "stable government and delivered on our promises and developed the state."

"As I look back on the 5 years I feel a deep sense of fulfilment. I do have a list of things we could do better and a list of things that we need to do," he said in his tweet, adding,"I am looking forward to your love & support for doing more."&nbsp;

However, with chief minister Siddaramaiah declaring he may step aside if the Congress high command decided to field a Dalit CM has created quite a stir ahead of counting day.

BJP's Yeddyurappa on the other hand confidently declared ahead of polling day that the party is "headed towards a landslide victory."

The twist in the tale could be HD Deve Gowda led-Janata Dal (Secular) which may hold the crucial "trump card" if the election ends in a stalemate with neither the BJP or the Congress unable to cobble up a majority.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had branded the JD(S) as the "B-team" of the BJP, the party which had won 40 seats in the 224-seat assembly in 2013 could once again surprise everyone and become a "kingmaker" as is being widely speculated.&nbsp;

The JD(S) strategy to target Dalits and Vokkaligas could help it to get crucial seats.

H D Kumaraswamy, Deve Gowda's son has led the campaign for his party and it remains to be seen if the party will see its finest hour today.

On Saturday, the voter turnout in Karnataka was 72.36 which was a record, however, exit polls predict it would be a hung assembly

As the ballot boxes in Karnataka today, the fate of Congress chief minister Siddaramaiah and BJP's CM face Yeddyurappa will be decided by voters who exercised their franchise on Saturday. On Saturday, the voter turnout in Karnataka was 72.36 which was a record, however, exit polls predict it would be a hung assembly. The state which saw a heated poll campaign in the last two months between the BJP and the Congress became a battle of nerves as PM Modi joined the campaign trail in the last leg on May 1st addressing rallies in over 20 locations. Although the Indian prime minister focused his campaign on Rahul Gandhi and the Congress, attacking Siddaramaiah's performance in the last five years, the country will finally get to know the verdict of the voters on Tuesday. Siddaramaiah in his last tweet on May 9th had called on voters to pick "peace, stability & progress", asserting that his government had ensured a "stable government and delivered on our promises and developed the state." "As I look back on the 5 years I feel a deep sense of fulfilment. I do have a list of things we could do better and a list of things that we need to do," he said in his tweet, adding,"I am looking forward to your love & support for doing more." However, with chief minister Siddaramaiah declaring he may step aside if the Congress high command decided to field a Dalit CM has created quite a stir ahead of counting day. BJP's Yeddyurappa on the other hand confidently declared ahead of polling day that the party is "headed towards a landslide victory." The twist in the tale could be HD Deve Gowda led-Janata Dal (Secular) which may hold the crucial "trump card" if the election ends in a stalemate with neither the BJP or the Congress unable to cobble up a majority. Rahul Gandhi had branded the JD(S) as the "B-team" of the BJP, the party which had won 40 seats in the 224-seat assembly in 2013 could once again surprise everyone and become a "kingmaker" as is being widely speculated. The JD(S) strategy to target Dalits and Vokkaligas could help it to get crucial seats. H D Kumaraswamy, Deve Gowda's son has led the campaign for his party and it remains to be seen if the party will see its finest hour today.

Karnataka elections: D-Day for Congress, BJP as Siddaramaiah & Yeddyurappa eye top spot

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".

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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’ !
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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

As results of the Karnataka assembly elections started pouring in, a Congress delegation which had gone to the Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala's house did not get entry and were turned back.

The delegation was led by Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president G Parameshwara, ANI reported.

Meanwhile, JD(S) leader Danish Ali confirmed that the Congress had extended its support to the party which had accepted it. The JD(S) leader said that both parties would together meet the Governor after 5:30 pm today.

"JD(S) had always maintained that HD Kumaraswamy will be CM. As per results, we're doing everything to keep BJP out of power. Congress has extended its support, we have accepted it. We will jointly go to meet Governor after 5.30 pm today," Danish Ali said.

The JD(S) and the Congress have agreed on HD Kumaraswamy as the next chief minister should they form the government in Karnataka, news reports said Tuesday.

Siddaramaiah has submitted his resignation to the Karnataka Governor.

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)

The halfway mark is 112 seats.

The BJP is leading in 106 seats, the Congress in 75, the JD(S)+ in 38, and Others 3, Official Election Commission trends at the moment state.

That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 113 seats.

JD(S) leader Danish Ali has confirmed that the Congress had extended its support to the party which had accepted it

As results of the Karnataka assembly elections started pouring in, a Congress delegation which had gone to the Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala's house did not get entry and were turned back. The delegation was led by Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president G Parameshwara, ANI reported. Meanwhile, JD(S) leader Danish Ali confirmed that the Congress had extended its support to the party which had accepted it. The JD(S) leader said that both parties would together meet the Governor after 5:30 pm today. "JD(S) had always maintained that HD Kumaraswamy will be CM. As per results, we're doing everything to keep BJP out of power. Congress has extended its support, we have accepted it. We will jointly go to meet Governor after 5.30 pm today," Danish Ali said. The JD(S) and the Congress have agreed on HD Kumaraswamy as the next chief minister should they form the government in Karnataka, news reports said Tuesday. Siddaramaiah has submitted his resignation to the Karnataka Governor. Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.) The halfway mark is 112 seats. The BJP is leading in 106 seats, the Congress in 75, the JD(S)+ in 38, and Others 3, Official Election Commission trends at the moment state. That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 113 seats.

Karnataka assembly elections: Earlier Congress delegation turned back from Governor's house

The JD(S) and the Congress have agreed on HD Kumaraswamy as the next chief minister should they form the government in Karnataka, news reports said Tuesday.&nbsp;

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The Congress had earlier offered outside support to the JD(S).&nbsp;

News reports had said earlier that former Congress President Sonia Gandhi had spoken with Ghulam Nabi Azad, who then spoke with JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy.&nbsp;

Azad said he had told Gowda and Kumaraswamy that the picking of a chief minister would be left to them.&nbsp;

The reports now say Kumaraswamy has picked the chief minister's chair for himself.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-case-of-hung-verdict-both-siddaramaiah--yeddyurappa-may-have-to-give-up-karnataka-cm-ambitions-136655">If verdict hung, both Siddaramaiah & Yeddyurappa may have to give up Karnataka CM ambitions</a>

Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)

The halfway mark then is 112 seats.&nbsp;

Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3.&nbsp;

That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 115 seats.&nbsp;

The Congress had told the JD(S), when it had offered it outside support, that the picking of a chief minister would be left to them.

The JD(S) and the Congress have agreed on HD Kumaraswamy as the next chief minister should they form the government in Karnataka, news reports said Tuesday. × The Congress had earlier offered outside support to the JD(S). News reports had said earlier that former Congress President Sonia Gandhi had spoken with Ghulam Nabi Azad, who then spoke with JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy. Azad said he had told Gowda and Kumaraswamy that the picking of a chief minister would be left to them. The reports now say Kumaraswamy has picked the chief minister's chair for himself. Also read: If verdict hung, both Siddaramaiah & Yeddyurappa may have to give up Karnataka CM ambitions Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.) The halfway mark then is 112 seats. Official EC trends at the moment say the BJP has won or is leading in 104 seats, the Congress in 78, the JD(S)+ in 37, and Others 3. That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 115 seats.

JD(S), Congress agree on HD Kumaraswamy as Karnataka Chief Minister

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.

&nbsp;

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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

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

A day after polling in the Karnataka assembly elections, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday asserted that he has no problem if the Congress high command decides to choose a Dalit leader for the state's top post.&nbsp;

To a question on the possibility of a Dalit chief minister, he said, “It is fine if the party decides to have a Dalit chief minister.”

But he made it clear no one could forcibly take the decision – and he was quick to add that he was popular among MLAs, whose opinion will have weight in the final decision.

The issue had been raised by BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the election campaign, daring the Congress to replace Siddaramaiah with a Dalit face.

Meanwhile, BJP’s Sadananda Gowda took a dig at Siddaramaiah’s Dalit CM remark, saying that his stance had now shifted due to his fear of losing the polls.

Assembly Elections in Karnataka witnessed the highest voter turnout in the state in over 35 years.

As polling came to a close in Karnataka at 6 pm on Saturday, the Election Commission announced that 72.13% voters turned out across the state to vote.

But Siddaramaiah made it clear no one could forcibly take the decision – and he was quick to add that he was popular among MLAs, whose opinion will have weight in the final decision.

A day after polling in the Karnataka assembly elections, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday asserted that he has no problem if the Congress high command decides to choose a Dalit leader for the state's top post. To a question on the possibility of a Dalit chief minister, he said, “It is fine if the party decides to have a Dalit chief minister.” But he made it clear no one could forcibly take the decision – and he was quick to add that he was popular among MLAs, whose opinion will have weight in the final decision. The issue had been raised by BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the election campaign, daring the Congress to replace Siddaramaiah with a Dalit face. Meanwhile, BJP’s Sadananda Gowda took a dig at Siddaramaiah’s Dalit CM remark, saying that his stance had now shifted due to his fear of losing the polls. Assembly Elections in Karnataka witnessed the highest voter turnout in the state in over 35 years. As polling came to a close in Karnataka at 6 pm on Saturday, the Election Commission announced that 72.13% voters turned out across the state to vote.

I am okay with Dalit CM if Congress high command says so: Siddaramaiah

A day after the Karnataka Assembly polls, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday asserted that the Congress would retain power in the southern state and said this was his last election."

Speaking to reporters in Chamundeshwari constituency, one of the two seats from where he contested in the high-stakes polls, along with Badami in north Karnataka, the Congress leader said, "This will be my last election."

To a question on the possibility of a Dalit chief minister, he said, "It is fine if the party decides to have a Dalit chief minister."

Siddaramaiah exuded confidence that the Congress would get an absolute majority in Karnataka and ruled out any possibility of a tie-up with the JD(S), led by former prime minister H D Deve Gowda.

Brushing aside the exit polls, most of which have predicted a fractured verdict with some pointing towards a possible defeat for the Congress, the chief minister tweeted, "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 an average of 6+4+2 is 4. At 6 feet you drown (sic)."

"So, Dear party workers, supporters & well-wishers, don't worry about exit polls. Relax & enjoy your weekend.

We are coming back (sic)," he said in another tweet.

Polling in the southern state was held yesterday and the results will be declared&nbsp;on Tuesday.

Siddaramaiah exuded confidence that the Congress would get an absolute majority in Karnataka and ruled out any possibility of a tie-up with the JD(S), led by former prime minister H D Deve Gowda

A day after the Karnataka Assembly polls, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday asserted that the Congress would retain power in the southern state and said this was his last election." Speaking to reporters in Chamundeshwari constituency, one of the two seats from where he contested in the high-stakes polls, along with Badami in north Karnataka, the Congress leader said, "This will be my last election." To a question on the possibility of a Dalit chief minister, he said, "It is fine if the party decides to have a Dalit chief minister." Siddaramaiah exuded confidence that the Congress would get an absolute majority in Karnataka and ruled out any possibility of a tie-up with the JD(S), led by former prime minister H D Deve Gowda. Brushing aside the exit polls, most of which have predicted a fractured verdict with some pointing towards a possible defeat for the Congress, the chief minister tweeted, "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 an average of 6+4+2 is 4. At 6 feet you drown (sic)." "So, Dear party workers, supporters & well-wishers, don't worry about exit polls. Relax & enjoy your weekend. We are coming back (sic)," he said in another tweet. Polling in the southern state was held yesterday and the results will be declared on Tuesday.

'This is my last election', says Siddaramaiah

"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>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995535682822000640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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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
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/995484103611908098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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

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

Over 3.5 crore&nbsp;people registered their votes in the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-election-live-updates-voting-begins-as--siddaramaiah-tries-to-break-33-year-old-jinx-136233"> Karnataka assembly elections</a> that ended on May 12.

While the state recorded a voter turnout of 70 per cent, the figures are expected to go up as the pollings continued in some areas.

Some polling stations of Hebbal constituency also experienced non-functional EVMs and will, therefore, conduct re-polling.

Polling in Bengaluru's Raja Rajeshwari Nagar segment has been postponed to May 28 following the discovery of voter ID cards.

The elections in Bengaluru's Jayanagar seat were cancelled following the death of BJP contestant BN Vijaya Kumar.

The elections in the state are crucial for both the ruling Congress as well as the BJP. Both the parties are showing confidence in securing a victory in the state.

While the state recorded a voter turnout of 70 per cent, the figures are expected to go up as the pollings continued in some areas

Over 3.5 crore people registered their votes in the Karnataka assembly elections that ended on May 12. While the state recorded a voter turnout of 70 per cent, the figures are expected to go up as the pollings continued in some areas. Some polling stations of Hebbal constituency also experienced non-functional EVMs and will, therefore, conduct re-polling. Polling in Bengaluru's Raja Rajeshwari Nagar segment has been postponed to May 28 following the discovery of voter ID cards. The elections in Bengaluru's Jayanagar seat were cancelled following the death of BJP contestant BN Vijaya Kumar. The elections in the state are crucial for both the ruling Congress as well as the BJP. Both the parties are showing confidence in securing a victory in the state.

Karnataka polls end with over 70% voter turnout

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

Almost five crore citizens of Karnataka will visit polling booths to exercise their franchise to elect their representatives to the state assembly on Saturday.

The election in Karnataka is considered crucial for the Congress Party, as it would be looking to prevent the Bharatiya Janata Party (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 BS&nbsp;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.

Voting for the 224-member assembly will begin at 7 am across Karnataka on Saturday morning, except in Jayanagar constituency, following the demise of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate B&nbsp;N&nbsp;Vijayakumar on May 4.

The polling will continue till 6 pm in 58,546 polling stations each, equipped with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails. (VVPATs).

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 polling across the 224 assembly constituencies spread across 30 districts.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded 223 candidates, while Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) have fielded 222 and 201 seats respectively.

Out of the 224 seats, 36 of them are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs), while 15 of them are for Scheduled Tribes (STs).

The majority mark for any party to form the government is 112 in the 225-member assembly. While elections are held for 224 seats, one member is nominated by the state governor from the Anglo-Indian community.

Votes will be counted and results declared on May 15.

Of the 2,564 candidates analysed, about 883 (34 per cent) are crorepati candidates.

Party wise, nearly all the candidates of both the national parties, Congress and the BJP, are crorepatis.

Congress has 207 (94 per cent) crorepati candidates, while the BJP has 208 (93 per cent) millionaire contestants.

Not far behind is the Janata Dal (United) (JD-U), with its 154 (77 per cent) crorepati contestants.

In addition to crorepati candidates, 645, or 24 per cent, contestants are such who have criminal cases registered against them.

Further, 25 per cent seats have been declared red alert constituencies.This means there 56 assembly constituencies wherein three or more candidates with declared criminal cases are contesting in the Karnataka election.

Meanwhile, the smallest constituency in terms of area is Dasarahalli seat in Bengaluru Urban district.

It measures just 8.91 sq km in size and has 2.3 lakh male and 2 lakh female voters.

PN&nbsp;Krishnamurthy from Congress and R&nbsp;Manjunatha from JD(S) will fight two-time BJP MLA S Muniraju for the seat.

The biggest constituency in terms of area is the Haliyal seat located in Uttara Kannada district in north Karnataka.

Congress leader RV&nbsp;Deshpande, who is the Medium and Heavy Industries Minister is the incumbent MLA from this seat.

He will face KR&nbsp;Ramesh of JD(S) and Sunil V&nbsp;Hegde of the BJP respectively to defend his seat.

In terms of the size of the electorate, Sringeri is the smallest constituency. It is a prominent religious town situated in the hilly Chikkamagaluru district in south Karnataka and has been a BJP bastion since 2004.

It has 1.6 lakh voters. Sitting MLA DN&nbsp;Jeevaraj of the BJP will take on Congress` TD&nbsp;Rajegowda and JD(S)` HG&nbsp;Venkatesh.

While in Bengaluru South, which has the biggest electorate of 5.5 lakh voters, will witness the contest among BJP`s incumbent MLA M.

Krishnappa, Congress` R.K. Ramesh and JD(S)` R. Prabhakar Reddy.

In 2013, the Congress won with an absolute majority. It won 122 seats, 10 more than the majority mark of 112, while the BJP and JD(S) won 40 seats each.

The voter turnout recorded then was 71.29 percent.

Other parties bagged 22 seats in the 224-seat legislative assembly.

Siddaramaiah was sworn in as the new chief minister after the election.

Interestingly, no incumbent government has been re-elected in Karnataka since 1985

Almost five crore citizens of Karnataka will visit polling booths to exercise their franchise to elect their representatives to the state assembly on Saturday. The election in Karnataka is considered crucial for the Congress Party, as it would be looking to prevent the Bharatiya Janata Party (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 BS 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. Voting for the 224-member assembly will begin at 7 am across Karnataka on Saturday morning, except in Jayanagar constituency, following the demise of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate B N Vijayakumar on May 4. The polling will continue till 6 pm in 58,546 polling stations each, equipped with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails. (VVPATs). 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 polling across the 224 assembly constituencies spread across 30 districts. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded 223 candidates, while Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) have fielded 222 and 201 seats respectively. Out of the 224 seats, 36 of them are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs), while 15 of them are for Scheduled Tribes (STs). The majority mark for any party to form the government is 112 in the 225-member assembly. While elections are held for 224 seats, one member is nominated by the state governor from the Anglo-Indian community. Votes will be counted and results declared on May 15. Of the 2,564 candidates analysed, about 883 (34 per cent) are crorepati candidates. Party wise, nearly all the candidates of both the national parties, Congress and the BJP, are crorepatis. Congress has 207 (94 per cent) crorepati candidates, while the BJP has 208 (93 per cent) millionaire contestants. Not far behind is the Janata Dal (United) (JD-U), with its 154 (77 per cent) crorepati contestants. In addition to crorepati candidates, 645, or 24 per cent, contestants are such who have criminal cases registered against them. Further, 25 per cent seats have been declared red alert constituencies.This means there 56 assembly constituencies wherein three or more candidates with declared criminal cases are contesting in the Karnataka election. Meanwhile, the smallest constituency in terms of area is Dasarahalli seat in Bengaluru Urban district. It measures just 8.91 sq km in size and has 2.3 lakh male and 2 lakh female voters. PN Krishnamurthy from Congress and R Manjunatha from JD(S) will fight two-time BJP MLA S Muniraju for the seat. The biggest constituency in terms of area is the Haliyal seat located in Uttara Kannada district in north Karnataka. Congress leader RV Deshpande, who is the Medium and Heavy Industries Minister is the incumbent MLA from this seat. He will face KR Ramesh of JD(S) and Sunil V Hegde of the BJP respectively to defend his seat. In terms of the size of the electorate, Sringeri is the smallest constituency. It is a prominent religious town situated in the hilly Chikkamagaluru district in south Karnataka and has been a BJP bastion since 2004. It has 1.6 lakh voters. Sitting MLA DN Jeevaraj of the BJP will take on Congress` TD Rajegowda and JD(S)` HG Venkatesh. While in Bengaluru South, which has the biggest electorate of 5.5 lakh voters, will witness the contest among BJP`s incumbent MLA M. Krishnappa, Congress` R.K. Ramesh and JD(S)` R. Prabhakar Reddy. In 2013, the Congress won with an absolute majority. It won 122 seats, 10 more than the majority mark of 112, while the BJP and JD(S) won 40 seats each. The voter turnout recorded then was 71.29 percent. Other parties bagged 22 seats in the 224-seat legislative assembly. Siddaramaiah was sworn in as the new chief minister after the election.

Karnataka votes as Congress attempts to prevent BJP juggernaut

Pooh-poohing BJP chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa’s claim that his party will win 150 seats and form the government in the state on May 17, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called him ''mentally disturbed''.&nbsp;

''Yeddyurappa is mentally disturbed. Congress will get more than 120 seats. I am very confident.'' said the incumbent chief minister of the Congress party.&nbsp;

He also accused JD (S) of distributing money in Chamundeshwari constituency.&nbsp;

JD (S) has distributed a lot of money at Chamundeshwari constituency, the CM said and added that their candidate in the constituency claims that he is a society secretary, from where did he get so much money? he asked.

Accusing the&nbsp;BJP of is openly supporting JD (S), the CM said that they have&nbsp;fielded a dummy candidate in Chamundeshwari constituency. &nbsp;

Earlier on Saturday, after casting his vote, BS Yeddyurappa exuded confidence that his party will form the new government in Karnataka on May 17 after thumping victory.

BS Yeddyurappa is the BJP candidate from Shikaripura.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala also expressed confidence of victory. Congress will win more than 130 seats and the corrupt and criminal Yeddy-Reddy gang will be rejected by the people of Karnataka.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Ashok Gehlot questioned the timing of Modi's temple visits in Nepal. Modi's Temple visits in Nepal are aimed at influencing the voters, the Congress leader said.&nbsp;

As there is a model code of conduct in Karnataka, PM Modi planned to pray at temples in Nepal instead, just to influence voters, he said and added that this is not a good trend for democracy. Why did he only choose today as the day? Gehlot asked.&nbsp;

''Over the years, I feel that malpractices have increased. Distribution of sarees. alcohol, dhotis and&nbsp;cookers have come out in open. It is not a good sign in democracy,'' former Karnataka Lokayukta Justice Santosh Hegde said after casting his vote at a polling booth in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: As voting in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> continues, CM Siddaramaiah says, 'Yeddyurappa is mentally disturbed. Congress will get more than 120 seats. I am very confident.' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/yE6isfZcYq">pic.twitter.com/yE6isfZcYq</a>
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JDS has distributed a lot of money, their candidate says he is a society secretary, so from where did he get so much money? Also, BJP is openly supporting JDS, they have put up a dummy candidate here: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah on Chamundeshwari constituency <a href="https://t.co/TzQmd44S70">pic.twitter.com/TzQmd44S70</a>
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&nbsp;

Congress leader Ashok Gehlot said Modi's Temple visits in Nepal are aimed at influencing the voters.

Pooh-poohing BJP chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa’s claim that his party will win 150 seats and form the government in the state on May 17, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called him ''mentally disturbed''. ''Yeddyurappa is mentally disturbed. Congress will get more than 120 seats. I am very confident.'' said the incumbent chief minister of the Congress party. He also accused JD (S) of distributing money in Chamundeshwari constituency. JD (S) has distributed a lot of money at Chamundeshwari constituency, the CM said and added that their candidate in the constituency claims that he is a society secretary, from where did he get so much money? he asked. Accusing the BJP of is openly supporting JD (S), the CM said that they have fielded a dummy candidate in Chamundeshwari constituency. Earlier on Saturday, after casting his vote, BS Yeddyurappa exuded confidence that his party will form the new government in Karnataka on May 17 after thumping victory. BS Yeddyurappa is the BJP candidate from Shikaripura. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala also expressed confidence of victory. Congress will win more than 130 seats and the corrupt and criminal Yeddy-Reddy gang will be rejected by the people of Karnataka. Meanwhile, Congress leader Ashok Gehlot questioned the timing of Modi's temple visits in Nepal. Modi's Temple visits in Nepal are aimed at influencing the voters, the Congress leader said. As there is a model code of conduct in Karnataka, PM Modi planned to pray at temples in Nepal instead, just to influence voters, he said and added that this is not a good trend for democracy. Why did he only choose today as the day? Gehlot asked. ''Over the years, I feel that malpractices have increased. Distribution of sarees. alcohol, dhotis and cookers have come out in open. It is not a good sign in democracy,'' former Karnataka Lokayukta Justice Santosh Hegde said after casting his vote at a polling booth in Bengaluru. #WATCH: As voting in #Karnataka continues, CM Siddaramaiah says, 'Yeddyurappa is mentally disturbed. Congress will get more than 120 seats. I am very confident.' #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/yE6isfZcYq — ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2018 × JDS has distributed a lot of money, their candidate says he is a society secretary, so from where did he get so much money? Also, BJP is openly supporting JDS, they have put up a dummy candidate here: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah on Chamundeshwari constituency pic.twitter.com/TzQmd44S70 — ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2018 ×

'Yeddyurappa is mentally disturbed': Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah

Campaigning in Karnataka has come to an end, with high-intensity rallies being carried out by both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to woo voters in their favour in both rural and urban areas.

According to Election Commission data, Karnataka consists of 70 urban and 154 rural assembly constituencies.

While nearly half of the urban constituencies are in Bengaluru city (28), the rest are spread across seven city corporations - 43 city municipal councils (CMCs), 65 town municipal councils (TMCs) and 92 town panchayats (TPs).

Drawing from the experience of the Gujarat assembly elections in December last year, it was observed then that the BJP held strong ground in urban Gujarat, while the Congress had the rural voter segment in its grip.

Assembly polls in Karnataka take place tomorrow, and it will be worth a watch to see whether the BJP can work its magic in rural and urban areas, or will they concede defeat to the grand old party for the second time.

While the election results in Gujarat depicted a clear urban-rural divide, a similar situation is hard to ascertain in Karnataka, based on the results of the past two elections.

A cursory glance at the 2008 and 2013 elections in Karnataka shows that results could go either way, thereby eliminating the possibility of a clear-cut pattern in voting.

Taking Bengaluru into account, which has the most urban constituencies, the BJP, in 2008, won in 17 out of 28 seats, while the Congress won nearly 60 percent of the rural seats in the state.

Tables, however, turned in 2013, with the Congress winning 13 seats, one more than the BJP.

It must also be noted that in 2008, campaigning largely focused on the rural population, while in 2013, the urban voter dominated the decision-making process.

While the rural population is looking forward to increased availability of electricity, clean drinking water, education and job opportunities, the urban voter is more concerned about commuting through the harrowing, traffic congested streets of India`s IT hub.

Opinion polls conducted across the state have shown that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah`s campaign is leaning towards the rural population, be it his emphasis on promoting Kannada or the importance of preserving the state`s culture and heritage.

While these may garner votes in the Congress` favour, the alarming rate of farmer suicides in this stratum could swing votes in either direction.

The BJP too has been capitalising on the opportunity to hold the Siddaramaiah government responsible for the plight of farmers and the lack of basic amenities, which may open doors for the former to woo rural voters.

Opinion polls have also stated that the BJP may secure a higher share of votes in urban Karnataka, as many feel that issues related to Bengaluru have not been tackled during the Congress reign, be it infrastructural congestion, growing traffic, pollution of lakes, inefficient management of garbage, delays in the Metro rail construction, all of which have contributed to a disruptive existence.

Although campaigning has been extensively rural-centric, the urban voters, along with the final stance of the Janata Dal (Secular) would be game-changers.

Karnataka will elect representatives to 224-seat assembly on May 15. A total of 2,655 candidates are in the fray and 4.96 lakh people, including 2.52 crore men and 2.44 crore women, will take part in the election.

Over 15 lakh are first-time voters in the 18-19 years age group.

The population of Karnataka in 2018 as per estimated data is over 68 million. The literacy rate is 75.36 percent as per latest data.

About 84 percent of its people are Hindu, 13 percent Muslim, 1.9 percent Christian, 0.16 percent Buddhist and 0.05 percent Sikh.

Kannada is the official language of the state and is spoken by 66.26 percent of the population.

The population density of the state is 319 persons per square kilometre. The number of people living per square kilometer in the city has extended to 4,378 in the year 2011 from 2,985 in 2001.

The BJP has fielded 224 candidates, while Congress and JD (S) have fielded 222 and 201 seats respectively.

The election is considered significant for the incumbent Congress, who wants to retain power in the southern state ahead of the next year`s general elections, while the BJP is going the extra mile to dethrone the Siddaramaiah government and come back to power after a decade under the leadership of former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa.

The JD(S), too, is looking to establish itself once again in the state`s politics and is being perceived as a game changer in the state.

Karnataka consists of 70 urban and 154 rural assembly constituencies.

Campaigning in Karnataka has come to an end, with high-intensity rallies being carried out by both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to woo voters in their favour in both rural and urban areas. According to Election Commission data, Karnataka consists of 70 urban and 154 rural assembly constituencies. While nearly half of the urban constituencies are in Bengaluru city (28), the rest are spread across seven city corporations - 43 city municipal councils (CMCs), 65 town municipal councils (TMCs) and 92 town panchayats (TPs). Drawing from the experience of the Gujarat assembly elections in December last year, it was observed then that the BJP held strong ground in urban Gujarat, while the Congress had the rural voter segment in its grip. Assembly polls in Karnataka take place tomorrow, and it will be worth a watch to see whether the BJP can work its magic in rural and urban areas, or will they concede defeat to the grand old party for the second time. While the election results in Gujarat depicted a clear urban-rural divide, a similar situation is hard to ascertain in Karnataka, based on the results of the past two elections. A cursory glance at the 2008 and 2013 elections in Karnataka shows that results could go either way, thereby eliminating the possibility of a clear-cut pattern in voting. Taking Bengaluru into account, which has the most urban constituencies, the BJP, in 2008, won in 17 out of 28 seats, while the Congress won nearly 60 percent of the rural seats in the state. Tables, however, turned in 2013, with the Congress winning 13 seats, one more than the BJP. It must also be noted that in 2008, campaigning largely focused on the rural population, while in 2013, the urban voter dominated the decision-making process. While the rural population is looking forward to increased availability of electricity, clean drinking water, education and job opportunities, the urban voter is more concerned about commuting through the harrowing, traffic congested streets of India`s IT hub. Opinion polls conducted across the state have shown that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah`s campaign is leaning towards the rural population, be it his emphasis on promoting Kannada or the importance of preserving the state`s culture and heritage. While these may garner votes in the Congress` favour, the alarming rate of farmer suicides in this stratum could swing votes in either direction. The BJP too has been capitalising on the opportunity to hold the Siddaramaiah government responsible for the plight of farmers and the lack of basic amenities, which may open doors for the former to woo rural voters. Opinion polls have also stated that the BJP may secure a higher share of votes in urban Karnataka, as many feel that issues related to Bengaluru have not been tackled during the Congress reign, be it infrastructural congestion, growing traffic, pollution of lakes, inefficient management of garbage, delays in the Metro rail construction, all of which have contributed to a disruptive existence. Although campaigning has been extensively rural-centric, the urban voters, along with the final stance of the Janata Dal (Secular) would be game-changers. Karnataka will elect representatives to 224-seat assembly on May 15. A total of 2,655 candidates are in the fray and 4.96 lakh people, including 2.52 crore men and 2.44 crore women, will take part in the election. Over 15 lakh are first-time voters in the 18-19 years age group. The population of Karnataka in 2018 as per estimated data is over 68 million. The literacy rate is 75.36 percent as per latest data. About 84 percent of its people are Hindu, 13 percent Muslim, 1.9 percent Christian, 0.16 percent Buddhist and 0.05 percent Sikh. Kannada is the official language of the state and is spoken by 66.26 percent of the population. The population density of the state is 319 persons per square kilometre. The number of people living per square kilometer in the city has extended to 4,378 in the year 2011 from 2,985 in 2001. The BJP has fielded 224 candidates, while Congress and JD (S) have fielded 222 and 201 seats respectively. The election is considered significant for the incumbent Congress, who wants to retain power in the southern state ahead of the next year`s general elections, while the BJP is going the extra mile to dethrone the Siddaramaiah government and come back to power after a decade under the leadership of former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa. The JD(S), too, is looking to establish itself once again in the state`s politics and is being perceived as a game changer in the state.

Urban-rural divide key to Karnataka poll outcome

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

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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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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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.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5emukPjPWR4" width="560"></iframe>

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>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/993809871362510848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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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'

Karnataka chief minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Tuesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an election rally.

The praise was, however, a mere slip of tongue when the state chief minister got confused between his party candidate Narendra Swamy and PM Narendra Modi.

While addressing a rally Siddaramaiah said, "In all the villages, work on roads, drinking water, building houses, all this is possible because of Narendra Modi and us….”

On realising his mistake, the chief minister corrected himself and said, “Sorry sorry...Narendra Swamy….the important word is Narendra.”

The entire crowd including the party candidates accompanying Siddaramaiah on the dais broke into a laughter.&nbsp;

A similar gaffe was committed by<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shahs-blooper-calls-yeddyurappa-government-most-corrupt-126623"> BJP party president Amit Shah </a>in March who had inadvertently called his chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa as the most corrupt.

He had said, "Recently a retired Supreme Court judge said if there was ever a competition of the most corrupt government then the Yeddyurappa government is number one,"

Shah was making a slew of allegations against the Congress government led by chief minister Siddaramaiah.

The praise was, however, a mere slip of tongue when the state chief minister got confused between his party candidate Narendra Swamy and Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Karnataka chief minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Tuesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an election rally. The praise was, however, a mere slip of tongue when the state chief minister got confused between his party candidate Narendra Swamy and PM Narendra Modi. While addressing a rally Siddaramaiah said, "In all the villages, work on roads, drinking water, building houses, all this is possible because of Narendra Modi and us….” On realising his mistake, the chief minister corrected himself and said, “Sorry sorry...Narendra Swamy….the important word is Narendra.” The entire crowd including the party candidates accompanying Siddaramaiah on the dais broke into a laughter. A similar gaffe was committed by BJP party president Amit Shah in March who had inadvertently called his chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa as the most corrupt. He had said, "Recently a retired Supreme Court judge said if there was ever a competition of the most corrupt government then the Yeddyurappa government is number one," Shah was making a slew of allegations against the Congress government led by chief minister Siddaramaiah.

Siddaramaiah says development in Karnataka because of Narendra Modi, then says 'sorry sorry'

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

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