<p>The BSE Sensex logged a fall of 156 points to end at 35,387.88 on Wednesday amid uncertainty over government formation in Karnataka and no let-up in selling by foreign investors.</p>

<p>Moreover, there was a weak trend at other Asian markets, tracking overnight losses at the Wall Street amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Korean peninsula after North Korea called off talks with South Korea.</p>

<p>Brokers said investor sentiment was subdued following uncertainty over government formation in Karnataka, which has thrown up a hung verdict.</p>

<p>The 30-share Sensex opened lower at 35,452.35 points and moved between 35,241.63 and 35,543.89 before settling lower by 156.06 points, or 0.44 per cent, at 35,387.88.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the gauge had soared more than 400 points intra-day after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in Karnataka. However, it gave up all gains to end modestly lower after the Congress unexpectedly stitched up a post-poll alliance with the JD(S) and staked claim to form the government.</p>

<p>The 50-share NSE Nifty too stayed in the red through the session and finally settled 60.75 points, or 0.56 per cent down at 10,741.10. Intra-day, it moved between 10,699.70 and 10,790.45.</p>

<p>On the macro front, trade deficit widened to $13.7 billion in April, which further affected momentum.</p>

<p>Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs), who have been net sellers in the past few sessions, sold shares worth a net Rs 518.47 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 531.33 crore yesterday, according to provisional data.&nbsp</p>


There was also a weak trend at other Asian markets, tracking overnight losses at the Wall Street amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Korean peninsula after North Korea called off talks with South Korea

The BSE Sensex logged a fall of 156 points to end at 35,387.88 on Wednesday amid uncertainty over government formation in Karnataka and no let-up in selling by foreign investors. Moreover, there was a weak trend at other Asian markets, tracking overnight losses at the Wall Street amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Korean peninsula after North Korea called off talks with South Korea. Brokers said investor sentiment was subdued following uncertainty over government formation in Karnataka, which has thrown up a hung verdict. The 30-share Sensex opened lower at 35,452.35 points and moved between 35,241.63 and 35,543.89 before settling lower by 156.06 points, or 0.44 per cent, at 35,387.88. On Tuesday, the gauge had soared more than 400 points intra-day after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in Karnataka. However, it gave up all gains to end modestly lower after the Congress unexpectedly stitched up a post-poll alliance with the JD(S) and staked claim to form the government. The 50-share NSE Nifty too stayed in the red through the session and finally settled 60.75 points, or 0.56 per cent down at 10,741.10. Intra-day, it moved between 10,699.70 and 10,790.45. On the macro front, trade deficit widened to $13.7 billion in April, which further affected momentum. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs), who have been net sellers in the past few sessions, sold shares worth a net Rs 518.47 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 531.33 crore yesterday, according to provisional data.

Sensex sheds at 156 points on political uncertainty

<p>Congress-JD(S) chief ministerial candidate H D Kumaraswamy confirmed that his party would ally with the Congress Party to put forth the formation of the government in Karnataka.</p>

<p>"We have already decided to go with Congress. That's the reason we called for the JD (S) legislature party meeting. There is no question of taking any other decision," he told reporters here.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, another party member claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was approaching JD(S) MLAs.</p>

<p>"I don't know what they (BJP) are offering, but they are trying to call our people. Our party people are not responding. We are altogether no one can touch our party. Our MLAs are loyal to the party," JD(S) leader Saravana told reporters here.</p>

<p>"JD(S) MLAs are being offered Rs 100 crore each. Where is this black money coming from? They are supposedly the servers of poor people and they are offering money today. Where are the income tax officials?," said HD Kumaraswamy.</p>

<p>Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said the party had a preliminary telephonic talk with both JD-S chief and former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and his son and former Chief Minister. H.D. Kumaraswamy over government formation.</p>

<p>Results of the Karnataka Assembly polls announced on Tuesday evening showed that the BJP won 104 seats, emerging as the single largest party, while the Congress and JD(S) bagged 78 and 37 seats, respectively.</p>

<p>Soon after, the Congress announced that it would support the JD (S), taking their total seat share to 117, thus resulting in a fractured mandate.</p>

<p>As the results of the poll in the state have left the assembly in hung, the final decision will be taken by the Governor, Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala.</p>

<p>On a related note, JD(S) MLAs have gathered to attend the legislative party meeting, which is presently underway.</p>

<p>However, two JD(S) MLAs, namely Raja Venkatappa Nayaka and Venkata Rao Nadagouda, are missing from the meeting.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)</em></p>


Results of the Karnataka Assembly polls announced on Tuesday evening showed that the BJP won 104 seats, emerging as the single largest party, while the Congress and JD(S) bagged 78 and 37 seats, respectively.

Congress-JD(S) chief ministerial candidate H D Kumaraswamy confirmed that his party would ally with the Congress Party to put forth the formation of the government in Karnataka. "We have already decided to go with Congress. That's the reason we called for the JD (S) legislature party meeting. There is no question of taking any other decision," he told reporters here. Meanwhile, another party member claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was approaching JD(S) MLAs. "I don't know what they (BJP) are offering, but they are trying to call our people. Our party people are not responding. We are altogether no one can touch our party. Our MLAs are loyal to the party," JD(S) leader Saravana told reporters here. "JD(S) MLAs are being offered Rs 100 crore each. Where is this black money coming from? They are supposedly the servers of poor people and they are offering money today. Where are the income tax officials?," said HD Kumaraswamy. Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said the party had a preliminary telephonic talk with both JD-S chief and former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and his son and former Chief Minister. H.D. Kumaraswamy over government formation. Results of the Karnataka Assembly polls announced on Tuesday evening showed that the BJP won 104 seats, emerging as the single largest party, while the Congress and JD(S) bagged 78 and 37 seats, respectively. Soon after, the Congress announced that it would support the JD (S), taking their total seat share to 117, thus resulting in a fractured mandate. As the results of the poll in the state have left the assembly in hung, the final decision will be taken by the Governor, Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala. On a related note, JD(S) MLAs have gathered to attend the legislative party meeting, which is presently underway. However, two JD(S) MLAs, namely Raja Venkatappa Nayaka and Venkata Rao Nadagouda, are missing from the meeting. (With inputs from ANI)

No doubts over alliance with Congress, says Kumaraswamy

<p>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.</p>

<p><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></p>

<p>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.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
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<p>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.</p>

<p>JD(S) on the other hand has played to its strength ahead in 40 seats currently leading in southern Karnataka.</p>

<p><iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BZKCtcMT-NA" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>BJP has got the arithmetic right yet again winning in rural seats including in coastal belt wining over Lingayat seats.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>The two parties can form a coalition government in the state after the Governor's approval.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The results of the Karnataka assembly election were announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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</p>
— Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) <a href="https://twitter.com/asadowaisi/status/996412816973217793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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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

<p>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’.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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?</p>


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?

<p>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;</p>

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<p>"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;</p>

<p>The Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad had announced earlier on Tuesday that his party had offered&nbsp;support to the JD(S).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)</p>

<p>The halfway mark then is 112 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 115 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Should the JD(S) accept the Congress' offer, it is expected that Kumaraswamy will take the CM's post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>&nbsp;What happens next will depend&nbsp;on the governor, Vajubhai Vala. Vala was appointed by the Modi government four years ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996320637332275200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996321482300010496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>News reports Tuesday meanwhile said the BJP too had reached out to Deve Gowda.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996329945793155072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— 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)

<p>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.</p>

<p>The delegation was led by Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president G Parameshwara, ANI reported.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Siddaramaiah has submitted his resignation to the Karnataka Governor.</p>

<p>Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)</p>

<p>The halfway mark is 112 seats.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 113 seats.</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

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<p>The Congress had earlier offered outside support to the JD(S).&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Azad said he had told Gowda and Kumaraswamy that the picking of a chief minister would be left to them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports now say Kumaraswamy has picked the chief minister's chair for himself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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></p>

<p>Karnataka has a total of 224 assembly seats, but only 222 seats went to the polls this election. (Voting was postponed in two seats.)</p>

<p>The halfway mark then is 112 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>That would give the JD(S)-Congress a total of 115 seats.&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>The Congress and the JD(S), in a unanimous decision, have decided to name HD Kumaraswamy as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. The political powerplay in Karnataka took an interesting turn today when the BJP, despite, winning the most seats couldn't rise to power and Rahul Gandhi-led Congress didn't bat an eye in extending support to HD Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular).&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, Former Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi had a telephonic conversation with the JD(S) chief Deve Gowda to form an alliance. The Congress also offered the JD(S) to choose the Chief Ministerial of their choice, HD Kumaraswamy was handed over the baton.</p>

<p>JD(S) state chief and former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy had previously conceded that the assembly polls are a "battle for survival" for the JD(S) the party had been out of power for nearly a decade.</p>

<p>Kumaraswamy's political journey began in the year 1996. He started by winning that year's Lok Sabha elections from Kanakapura seat. Kumaraswamy rose to power in 2004 when the state elections resulted in a hung assembly and the JD(S) joined hands with the Congress to form a government he later called off the alliance, formed a government and assumed office as the 18th Chief Minister of Karnataka in 2006.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In October 2007, Kumaraswamy stepped down in what the party described as a 'power-sharing pact' with the BJP. BS Yeddyurappa succeeded him in November 2007.</p>

<p>This time around, opinion polls predicted a hung assembly, but the scenario was slightly different. JD(S) could have been sidelined as a customary kingmaker again, instead, the Congress politely placed the ball in Deve Gowda's hand who crowned his prince Karnataka's king.</p>

<p>Away from the limelight, that always shone brightly on BJP's Yeddyurappa and Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Kumaraswamy wearily worked towards pulling his party out of the role of a mere kingmaker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While campaigning for assembly polls this year, Kumaraswamy looked defiant and confident of emerging as a king. He is known to have tasted both the sides - when his party sided with the Congress to form a coalition and also when he gave it all away to the BJP in 2007.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But, having missed the taste of power for over a decade, former prime minister's son realised the importance of assuming power the tough way.</p>

<p>He was done with facilitating the political dreams of others and decided to steer his party on road to power.</p>


Having missed the taste of power for over a decade, former prime minister's son realised the importance of assuming power the tough way

The Congress and the JD(S), in a unanimous decision, have decided to name HD Kumaraswamy as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. The political powerplay in Karnataka took an interesting turn today when the BJP, despite, winning the most seats couldn't rise to power and Rahul Gandhi-led Congress didn't bat an eye in extending support to HD Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular). According to reports, Former Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi had a telephonic conversation with the JD(S) chief Deve Gowda to form an alliance. The Congress also offered the JD(S) to choose the Chief Ministerial of their choice, HD Kumaraswamy was handed over the baton. JD(S) state chief and former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy had previously conceded that the assembly polls are a "battle for survival" for the JD(S) the party had been out of power for nearly a decade. Kumaraswamy's political journey began in the year 1996. He started by winning that year's Lok Sabha elections from Kanakapura seat. Kumaraswamy rose to power in 2004 when the state elections resulted in a hung assembly and the JD(S) joined hands with the Congress to form a government he later called off the alliance, formed a government and assumed office as the 18th Chief Minister of Karnataka in 2006. In October 2007, Kumaraswamy stepped down in what the party described as a 'power-sharing pact' with the BJP. BS Yeddyurappa succeeded him in November 2007. This time around, opinion polls predicted a hung assembly, but the scenario was slightly different. JD(S) could have been sidelined as a customary kingmaker again, instead, the Congress politely placed the ball in Deve Gowda's hand who crowned his prince Karnataka's king. Away from the limelight, that always shone brightly on BJP's Yeddyurappa and Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Kumaraswamy wearily worked towards pulling his party out of the role of a mere kingmaker. While campaigning for assembly polls this year, Kumaraswamy looked defiant and confident of emerging as a king. He is known to have tasted both the sides - when his party sided with the Congress to form a coalition and also when he gave it all away to the BJP in 2007. But, having missed the taste of power for over a decade, former prime minister's son realised the importance of assuming power the tough way. He was done with facilitating the political dreams of others and decided to steer his party on road to power.

Kingmaker assumes power: HD Kumaraswamy holds seat as Karnataka's Chief Minister

<p>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.</p>

<p>Siddaramaiah will meet the governor&nbsp;Vajubhai Vala at 4 pm today.</p>

<p>The Congress chief ministerial candidate contested the polls from two constituencies,&nbsp;Chamundeshwari and Badami.</p>

<p>While he lost from Chamundeshwari, Siddaramaiah won from Badami by defeating BJP's B Sriramulu.</p>

<p>The results of the elections declared BJP as the major winning party with 104 seats, Congress winning 78 while JDS 36 seats.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996317950654103552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>So what are the possible outcomes in these hard-fought Karnataka elections?&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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;<br />
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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>HD Kumaraswamy would want to be the king, not kingmaker, least of all for Siddaramaiah. &nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
In another scenario, the Congress might look for a more neutral face to lead its charge in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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></p>

<p>Some of the names doing the rounds include that that of veteran leader and MP Mallikarjuna Kharge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kharge missed out on becoming chief minister in 2013.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Last but not least, Congress could consider the non-controversial figures of Industry Minister RV Deshpande and KPCC working president Dinesh Gundurao.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly, the Congress has not officially declared a CM candidate, but merely made Siddaramaiah in charge.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995900129235238917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;Let's move on to the BJP. Their chief ministerial candidate is BS Yeddyurappa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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;</p>

<p>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;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Some polling stations of Hebbal constituency also experienced non-functional EVMs and will, therefore, conduct re-polling.</p>

<p>Polling in Bengaluru's Raja Rajeshwari Nagar segment has been postponed to May 28 following the discovery of voter ID cards.</p>

<p>The elections in Bengaluru's Jayanagar seat were cancelled following the death of BJP contestant BN Vijaya Kumar.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-releases-list-of-218-candidates-for-karnataka-polls-130629">Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah</a> has said that his party was not going to enter into an alliance with any party.&nbsp</p>

<p>Asserting that Congress was a secular party he said that they were not forming an alliance with Janata Dal(Secular).</p>

<p>Responding to question on if he will contest from Badami constituency, the chief minister said that he would abide by his party's decision.</p>

<p>He said, "Whatever the party leadership says I&nbspwill abide by it".</p>

<p>Siddaramaiah was keen on contesting the elections from two constituencies Chamundeshwari and&nbspBadami. The leader was, however, given the ticket for only Chamundeshwari constituency.</p>

<p>The chief minister also hit out at the BJP President claiming that Amit Shah was not a Hindu&nbsphimself.&nbsp</p>

<p>He said, " Amit Shah said I&nbspam not a Hindu, but Amit Shah himself is not a Hindu, he is a Jain. He might believe in Hindutva but let him come out and say he is Hindu and a Jain".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">CM Siddaramaiah: We are not going to enter into an alliance with any party. We are a secular party.<br />
Reporter: But Janata Dal(S) is also secular<br />
CM Siddaramaiah: Who told you JDS is a secular party? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/AsDrc7JAvc">pic.twitter.com/AsDrc7JAvc</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp</p>


Asserting that Congress was a secular party he said that they were not forming an alliance with Janata Dal(Secular)

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah has said that his party was not going to enter into an alliance with any party. Asserting that Congress was a secular party he said that they were not forming an alliance with Janata Dal(Secular). Responding to question on if he will contest from Badami constituency, the chief minister said that he would abide by his party's decision. He said, "Whatever the party leadership says I&nbspwill abide by it". Siddaramaiah was keen on contesting the elections from two constituencies Chamundeshwari and&nbspBadami. The leader was, however, given the ticket for only Chamundeshwari constituency. The chief minister also hit out at the BJP President claiming that Amit Shah was not a Hindu&nbsphimself. He said, " Amit Shah said I&nbspam not a Hindu, but Amit Shah himself is not a Hindu, he is a Jain. He might believe in Hindutva but let him come out and say he is Hindu and a Jain". CM Siddaramaiah: We are not going to enter into an alliance with any party. We are a secular party. Reporter: But Janata Dal(S) is also secular CM Siddaramaiah: Who told you JDS is a secular party? #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/AsDrc7JAvc — ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2018 ×

We will not enter into alliance with any party: Siddaramaiah

<p>Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda today said he will not be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>The Janata Dal(Secular) president also indicated that&nbsphis grandson Prajwal Revanna may contest in his place from&nbspHassan&nbspas no other senior leader&nbspof the party was willing to take it up.</p>

<p>"I have decided not to contest for parliament&nbsp(election), I have asked all leaders from our district if they would like to contest for parliament. They will be given first preference," Gowda told reporters in Hassan.</p>

<p>Pointing out that several party leaders have expressed their unwillingness, he said: "What should I do, I have completed 85 years (age)."</p>

<p>"My honest opinion is that I want to send Prajwal Revanna to parliament, but people will decide."</p>

<p>"Prajwal is educated and has the capability, but some?times he easily gets upset, it is common..," he added.</p>

<p>Prajwal, son of Gowda's elder son and senior JD(S) leader H D Revanna, who was until recently involved in party&nbspactivities as a worker in Hassan district, the family's home&nbspturf, was in November appointed state general secretary.</p>

<p>The appointment was then seen as a push to the political aspirations of Prajwal, who has been openly&nbspdemanding a party ticket for the May 12 assembly elections.</p>

<p>Gowda, however, has repeatedly maintained that only&nbsptwo members from his family - Revanna and Kumaraswamy - will&nbspbe contesting the polls, in an attempt to wipe out the&nbsp"father-sons party" label attached to the JD(S).</p>

<p>Despite Kumaraswamy, JDS state chief and Gowda's other son, also reiterating the stand on the number of family members contesting on the party's ticket, mixed signals are? being sent out from within the family.</p>

<p>Until recently, Anita, Kumaraswamy's wife, had also reportedly expressed her interest in contesting from&nbspChannapatna, from where she lost the last time, if the party&nbspleadership agrees to it.</p>


Gowda has repeatedly maintained that only two members from his family - Revanna and Kumaraswamy - will be contesting the polls

Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda today said he will not be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The Janata Dal(Secular) president also indicated that&nbsphis grandson Prajwal Revanna may contest in his place from&nbspHassan&nbspas no other senior leader&nbspof the party was willing to take it up. "I have decided not to contest for parliament (election), I have asked all leaders from our district if they would like to contest for parliament. They will be given first preference," Gowda told reporters in Hassan. Pointing out that several party leaders have expressed their unwillingness, he said: "What should I do, I have completed 85 years (age)." "My honest opinion is that I want to send Prajwal Revanna to parliament, but people will decide." "Prajwal is educated and has the capability, but some?times he easily gets upset, it is common..," he added. Prajwal, son of Gowda's elder son and senior JD(S) leader H D Revanna, who was until recently involved in party&nbspactivities as a worker in Hassan district, the family's home&nbspturf, was in November appointed state general secretary. The appointment was then seen as a push to the political aspirations of Prajwal, who has been openly&nbspdemanding a party ticket for the May 12 assembly elections. Gowda, however, has repeatedly maintained that only&nbsptwo members from his family - Revanna and Kumaraswamy - will&nbspbe contesting the polls, in an attempt to wipe out the "father-sons party" label attached to the JD(S). Despite Kumaraswamy, JDS state chief and Gowda's other son, also reiterating the stand on the number of family members contesting on the party's ticket, mixed signals are? being sent out from within the family. Until recently, Anita, Kumaraswamy's wife, had also reportedly expressed her interest in contesting from&nbspChannapatna, from where she lost the last time, if the party&nbspleadership agrees to it.

Deve Gowda not to contest next Lok Sabha polls, grandson Prajwal Revanna may contest

<p>Amid speculation over who is forming an alliance with whom in the in the run-up to the Karnataka Assembly elections, JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda has told the Congress to come with ‘workable proposal’.</p>

<p>Concerned over the possible split in minority votes, progressive thinkers had urged H D Deve&nbspGowda to have an understanding with Congress. To which, he responded, “Let Congress come with a ‘workable proposal’ and I will look into it.”</p>

<p>Former Prime Minister and JD(S) leader Deve Gowda’s see-saw on the possibility of JD(S) having an understanding with the Congress raised many eyebrows&nbspon Tuesday. However, his son and former CM Kumaraswamy clarified that they are not ready to join hands with Congress.</p>

<p>Speaking at Mangaluru on January 22, Deve Gowda had said "I've burnt my fingers having supported the Congress. We'll go before the people with our policies and programmes and leave the final verdict to the electorate. I won't get into guessing our numbers. But my aim is to ensure that the party has at least one MLA from each district".</p>

<p>Even on Monday, Gowda had blasted Congress president Rahul Gandhi for questioning secular credentials of his party. While Deve Gowda is in favour of forming a pre-poll alliance with the Congress, Kumaraswamy is keen on&nbspthe BJP.</p>

<p>Kumaraswamy hopes to win 128 seats in the state. In the midst of all the confusion, seven the JD(S) rebellious legislators have joined hands with the Congress.</p>

<p>JD(S) has already made a&nbsppre-poll alliance with the BSP. But the Congress is yet to respond to Deve Gowda's overture. 

Concerned over possible split in minority votes, progressive thinkers had urged H D Devegowda Gowda to have an understanding with Congress. To which, he responded, “Let Congress come with a ‘workable proposal’ and I will look into it.”

Amid speculation over who is forming an alliance with whom in the in the run-up to the Karnataka Assembly elections, JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda has told the Congress to come with ‘workable proposal’. Concerned over the possible split in minority votes, progressive thinkers had urged H D Deve&nbspGowda to have an understanding with Congress. To which, he responded, “Let Congress come with a ‘workable proposal’ and I will look into it.” Former Prime Minister and JD(S) leader Deve Gowda’s see-saw on the possibility of JD(S) having an understanding with the Congress raised many eyebrows&nbspon Tuesday. However, his son and former CM Kumaraswamy clarified that they are not ready to join hands with Congress. Speaking at Mangaluru on January 22, Deve Gowda had said "I've burnt my fingers having supported the Congress. We'll go before the people with our policies and programmes and leave the final verdict to the electorate. I won't get into guessing our numbers. But my aim is to ensure that the party has at least one MLA from each district". Even on Monday, Gowda had blasted Congress president Rahul Gandhi for questioning secular credentials of his party. While Deve Gowda is in favour of forming a pre-poll alliance with the Congress, Kumaraswamy is keen on&nbspthe BJP. Kumaraswamy hopes to win 128 seats in the state. In the midst of all the confusion, seven the JD(S) rebellious legislators have joined hands with the Congress. JD(S) has already made a&nbsppre-poll alliance with the BSP. But the Congress is yet to respond to Deve Gowda's overture.

Karnataka polls: Let Congress come with ‘workable proposal’, says Deve Gowda on alliance

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