Hitting back at the BJP for calling his government "corrupt", Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah targetted the Bhartiya Janata Party on Tuesday saying their party do not have any moral right to talk about corruption.

He also questioned the BJP over the appointment of Lokpal.

He said, " What moral right does BJP have to talk about corruption? For last 4 years, the Central Government has not appointed a Lokpal. When he was the Chief Minister&nbsp;of Gujarat, Narendra Modi never appointed Lokayukta".

Referring to PM Modi's visit to Karnataka to address rallies ahead of the assembly election, he said " It is a democracy, we have no personal enmity with the PM. We have no objection to him coming here (Karnataka), but it is not going to have any impact".

BJP President Amit Shah had said on Monday that the Siddaramaiah government in the Karnataka is famous only for corruption.

While addressing a public meeting in the state he had said "Each and every state in the country has been known for some special programmes like promoting agriculture, giving prominence to industries, constructing dams to solve water crisis to name a few in the last five years. But the Siddaramaiah government in Karnataka is famous only for corruption".

He also said that Congress party is known for corrupt practices and is not supporting anti-corruption steps.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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What moral right does BJP have to talk about corruption? For last 4 years, the Central Government has not appointed a Lokpal. When he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi never appointed Lokayukta: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/1Mz5GYTor2">pic.twitter.com/1Mz5GYTor2</a>
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It is a democracy, we have no personal enmity with the PM. We have no objection to him coming here (Karnataka), but it is not going to have any impact: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/6Vz8Kjtekh">pic.twitter.com/6Vz8Kjtekh</a>
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Siddaramaiah said, 'What moral right does BJP have to talk about corruption? For last 4 years, the Central Government has not appointed a Lokpal. When he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi never appointed Lokayukta'

Hitting back at the BJP for calling his government "corrupt", Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah targetted the Bhartiya Janata Party on Tuesday saying their party do not have any moral right to talk about corruption. He also questioned the BJP over the appointment of Lokpal. He said, " What moral right does BJP have to talk about corruption? For last 4 years, the Central Government has not appointed a Lokpal. When he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi never appointed Lokayukta". Referring to PM Modi's visit to Karnataka to address rallies ahead of the assembly election, he said " It is a democracy, we have no personal enmity with the PM. We have no objection to him coming here (Karnataka), but it is not going to have any impact". BJP President Amit Shah had said on Monday that the Siddaramaiah government in the Karnataka is famous only for corruption. While addressing a public meeting in the state he had said "Each and every state in the country has been known for some special programmes like promoting agriculture, giving prominence to industries, constructing dams to solve water crisis to name a few in the last five years. But the Siddaramaiah government in Karnataka is famous only for corruption". He also said that Congress party is known for corrupt practices and is not supporting anti-corruption steps. What moral right does BJP have to talk about corruption? For last 4 years, the Central Government has not appointed a Lokpal. When he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi never appointed Lokayukta: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/1Mz5GYTor2 — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2018 × It is a democracy, we have no personal enmity with the PM. We have no objection to him coming here (Karnataka), but it is not going to have any impact: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/6Vz8Kjtekh — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2018 ×

BJP has no moral right to talk about corruption: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah

Siddaramaiah (he goes by this single name) has come a long way since his days of grazing cattle in a village near Mysore as a young boy. Born on August 12, 1948, he is the leader of the Indian National Congress and Karnataka's incumbent chief minister.

Siddaramaiah's humble background never came in the way of his success. He did not receive formal education during his initial years but went on to become a law graduate from Mysore University. Siddaramaiah was teaching law in Mysore for some time and made his political debut only in 1983 from Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysore.

Before joining Congress, Siddaramaiah was part of many Janata Parivar factions. As a member of H D Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular), he even served as deputy chief minister of Karnataka twice.

Siddaramaiah's debut in the Karnataka Assembly also came on a Lok Dal ticket, which was a part of the Janata Parivar. He has been winning assembly elections since then from Mysore district except twice, in 1989 and 1999, when he lost.

A private person, Siddaramaiah is always dressed in white kurta and panche (a famous South Indian attire) and carries an angavastra. He belongs to the Kuruba (shepherd) community - the third largest in Karnataka - but always projects himself as the champion of backward classes. He was instrumental in promoting AHINDA (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes and Dalits) conventions.

Siddaramaiah had a long association with Deve Gowda and held various portfolios as minister in the governments of Janata Dal headed by Ramakrishna Hegde, H D Deve Gowda and J H Patel. Earning his name as a good finance minister, he presented five successive budgets from 1994 and two more as finance minister in the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) government in 2004-2006.

But the long partnership ended in 2006 when Siddramaiah was expelled from JD(S). He had accused Deve Gowda of promoting only his family members in the party. Siddaramaiah then joined Congress at a large public meeting in Bengaluru, in Sonia Gandhi's presence.

Siddaramaiah won the Chamundeshwari bypolls held in December that year, by a margin of 257 votes against M Shivabasappa of JD(S), despite a fierce campaign against him by Deve Gowda, Chief Minister Kumaraswamy and Deputy Chief Minister Yeddyurappa. In the 2008 state assembly elections, he contested from Varuna Constituency and was re-elected for the fifth time.

He and his wife Parvathi had two sons - Rakesh and Yatindra. Rakesh, who helped his father in his political life, died of multi-organ failure in Belgium in 2016. His younger Yatindra is a doctor.

Siddaramaiah has won five times and tasted defeat twice at Chamundeshwari. He was representing Varuna constituency in Mysuru since 2008, which was later allotted to his son Yatindra.

Siddaramaiah's debut in the Karnataka Assembly came on a Lok Dal ticket, which was a part of the Janata Parivar.

Siddaramaiah (he goes by this single name) has come a long way since his days of grazing cattle in a village near Mysore as a young boy. Born on August 12, 1948, he is the leader of the Indian National Congress and Karnataka's incumbent chief minister. Siddaramaiah's humble background never came in the way of his success. He did not receive formal education during his initial years but went on to become a law graduate from Mysore University. Siddaramaiah was teaching law in Mysore for some time and made his political debut only in 1983 from Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysore. Before joining Congress, Siddaramaiah was part of many Janata Parivar factions. As a member of H D Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular), he even served as deputy chief minister of Karnataka twice. Siddaramaiah's debut in the Karnataka Assembly also came on a Lok Dal ticket, which was a part of the Janata Parivar. He has been winning assembly elections since then from Mysore district except twice, in 1989 and 1999, when he lost. A private person, Siddaramaiah is always dressed in white kurta and panche (a famous South Indian attire) and carries an angavastra. He belongs to the Kuruba (shepherd) community - the third largest in Karnataka - but always projects himself as the champion of backward classes. He was instrumental in promoting AHINDA (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes and Dalits) conventions. Siddaramaiah had a long association with Deve Gowda and held various portfolios as minister in the governments of Janata Dal headed by Ramakrishna Hegde, H D Deve Gowda and J H Patel. Earning his name as a good finance minister, he presented five successive budgets from 1994 and two more as finance minister in the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) government in 2004-2006. But the long partnership ended in 2006 when Siddramaiah was expelled from JD(S). He had accused Deve Gowda of promoting only his family members in the party. Siddaramaiah then joined Congress at a large public meeting in Bengaluru, in Sonia Gandhi's presence. Siddaramaiah won the Chamundeshwari bypolls held in December that year, by a margin of 257 votes against M Shivabasappa of JD(S), despite a fierce campaign against him by Deve Gowda, Chief Minister Kumaraswamy and Deputy Chief Minister Yeddyurappa. In the 2008 state assembly elections, he contested from Varuna Constituency and was re-elected for the fifth time. He and his wife Parvathi had two sons - Rakesh and Yatindra. Rakesh, who helped his father in his political life, died of multi-organ failure in Belgium in 2016. His younger Yatindra is a doctor. Siddaramaiah has won five times and tasted defeat twice at Chamundeshwari. He was representing Varuna constituency in Mysuru since 2008, which was later allotted to his son Yatindra.

Siddaramaiah: Janata Parivar veteran and Congress's best bet in Karnataka polls

12: 52 pm:&nbsp;Before questioning us Rahul Gandhi should know that in 2005 Manmohan Singh had said that all villages will be electrified by 2009, and the same thing was said by Sonia Gandhi ji and you(Rahul ) mock the labourers &nbsp;and workers who made this (electrification) possible: PM Modi&nbsp;

12: 50 pm: On Lokayukta, the PM said: "In Karnataka, there is no law and order. The Lokayukta is not safe, how can the common people be safe."

12: 49 pm: "If CM has a 2+1 formula then ministers have 1+1 formula. Relatives of ministers are fighting polls. This is hurting the workers of the Congress, the PM said.&nbsp;

12:48 pm: Vote for BJP is a vote for vikas&nbsp;(development), he said in his closing remarks.

12:47 pm: Why is there no proper access to safe drinking water in Karnataka: Modi

12:45 pm: Only NDA is working for the benefit of farmers, he declared.

12:44 pm: Whenever there is Congress, there is corruption, he said.

12:38 pm: Congress is naamdaar&nbsp;(those who pretend to work), BJP is kaamdaar(doer), Modi said, adding, family&nbsp;politics will not work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

12:32 pm: Rahul can't even pronounce the names of his party leaders, the prime minister said.

12:27 pm: Can Rahul Gandhi even speak for 15 minutes on Karnataka's development without reading from any piece of paper, PM Modi said while taking a dig at Congress vice-president.

You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue, he added.

12:22 pm:&nbsp;I want to dedicate the historical achievement of the country on 28th April, when all villages in India were electrified, to the workers and labourers of the country on this Labour day, PM Modi said.

12:20 pm: Taking a dig at the Congress government, the prime asked: Why are 4 crore people without electricity in the state? Want electricity in every household, he declared.

12:16 pm: BJP will sweep Karnataka elections, he said.

12:12 pm:&nbsp;In his first election rally in Karnataka, PM Modi said not a wave but a BJP storm will hit Karnataka

12:13pm: Sitting with the next BJP chief minister(Yeddyurappa who is present at the poll rally)

Earlier, PM Modi along with BJP <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-bjp-registers-complaint-against-jignesh-mewani-prakash-raj-for-comments-on-pm-modi-133878">president Amit Shah arrived</a> in Karnataka's Senthemarahalli village in Chamarajanagar district on Tuesday to kick-start his poll rally today.

This is PM Modi's first rally in Karnataka ever since the polls were announced two months ago. The Prime Minister will address a string of rallies in Karnataka over the next five days including three today in Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi.

His next stop today will be at Udupi at 3pm where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground at 3pm.&nbsp;

Later on Tuesday, the prime minister will address another public gathering in Chikkodi at 6pm.

Karnataka which is being led by a chief minister Siddaramaiah's Congress government will go to the polls on 12th May with the results to be announced three days later on 15th.

<img alt="ModiMarketing1_2.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/ModiMarketing1_2.jpg" width="463" />

This is PM Modi's first rally in Karnataka ever since the polls were announced two months ago.

12: 52 pm: Before questioning us Rahul Gandhi should know that in 2005 Manmohan Singh had said that all villages will be electrified by 2009, and the same thing was said by Sonia Gandhi ji and you(Rahul ) mock the labourers and workers who made this (electrification) possible: PM Modi 12: 50 pm: On Lokayukta, the PM said: "In Karnataka, there is no law and order. The Lokayukta is not safe, how can the common people be safe." 12: 49 pm: "If CM has a 2+1 formula then ministers have 1+1 formula. Relatives of ministers are fighting polls. This is hurting the workers of the Congress, the PM said. 12:48 pm: Vote for BJP is a vote for vikas (development), he said in his closing remarks. 12:47 pm: Why is there no proper access to safe drinking water in Karnataka: Modi 12:45 pm: Only NDA is working for the benefit of farmers, he declared. 12:44 pm: Whenever there is Congress, there is corruption, he said. 12:38 pm: Congress is naamdaar (those who pretend to work), BJP is kaamdaar(doer), Modi said, adding, family politics will not work. 12:32 pm: Rahul can't even pronounce the names of his party leaders, the prime minister said. 12:27 pm: Can Rahul Gandhi even speak for 15 minutes on Karnataka's development without reading from any piece of paper, PM Modi said while taking a dig at Congress vice-president. You can speak in Hindi, English or your mother tongue, he added. 12:22 pm: I want to dedicate the historical achievement of the country on 28th April, when all villages in India were electrified, to the workers and labourers of the country on this Labour day, PM Modi said. 12:20 pm: Taking a dig at the Congress government, the prime asked: Why are 4 crore people without electricity in the state? Want electricity in every household, he declared. 12:16 pm: BJP will sweep Karnataka elections, he said. 12:12 pm: In his first election rally in Karnataka, PM Modi said not a wave but a BJP storm will hit Karnataka 12:13pm: Sitting with the next BJP chief minister(Yeddyurappa who is present at the poll rally) Earlier, PM Modi along with BJP president Amit Shah arrived in Karnataka's Senthemarahalli village in Chamarajanagar district on Tuesday to kick-start his poll rally today. This is PM Modi's first rally in Karnataka ever since the polls were announced two months ago. The Prime Minister will address a string of rallies in Karnataka over the next five days including three today in Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi. His next stop today will be at Udupi at 3pm where he will visit Krishna Mutt and take blessings of the Pejawar seer before addressing a public rally at AGM College Ground at 3pm. Later on Tuesday, the prime minister will address another public gathering in Chikkodi at 6pm. Karnataka which is being led by a chief minister Siddaramaiah's Congress government will go to the polls on 12th May with the results to be announced three days later on 15th.

Can Rahul Gandhi speak on Karnataka's development for 15 minutes, asks PM Modi in poll rally

The two front runners for the post of Chief minister of Karnataka state, Siddaramaiah of the Congress Party and B.S. Yeddyurappa of the BJP are repeatedly assuring their voters that they will head the government if their respective party is elected to power, but the fact is that both are unsure of the support of their own party colleagues in the matter.

Siddaramaiah's doesn't just need to fight the BJP he has people within the party who have been openly dissenting with his nomination as the CM candidate. Though he is the sitting chief minister of the only large Congress ruling state in the country, his party colleagues who are far senior to him, feel that he should have made way to someone else this time, like say Leader of the Opposition in Parliament and Dalit leader Mallikarjun Kharge or the very popular and influential D.K. Shivakumar.

But Siddaramaiah had Rahul Gandhi's ear, and convinced him that he would deliver victory. Therefore the sharp and shrewd Kuruba caste leader had a completely free run in the selection of candidates. Winnability and caste affiliations were the deciding factors in allotting tickets. The result is that others in the party were piqued, which is evident in their body language when sharing the stage with Siddaramaiah. When the CM speaks they chatter amongst each other or look disinterestedly at the audience, even glowering when slogans are raised praising Siddaramaiah. Actually, this isn't in the tradition of the Congress party. When a Gandhi is on stage, slogans are only for RG. But its different in Karnataka where regionalism off late has become important for its people. The crowd whistles and laughs out loud at all the playing to the gallery that Siddaramaiah does. RG is not getting the same response. People are polite, they smile at him, get selfies taken with him but voluble support is only for Siddaramaiah.

 
But crowds and promises need not always translate into votes. He has a tough two weeks ahead of him. In both the constituencies that he is contesting from, Chamundeshwari and Badami, his rivals are strong and have vowed to defeat him at any cost. There are many in the Congress who whisper that some big guns in the Congress would relish the prospect of a Congress win minus Siddaramaiah. If Siddaramaiah loses in both his constituencies then he can hardly make a claim to be CM. In the event of a hung assembly, the Congress could approach the Janata Dal (S) for support to form an anti-BJP coalition. The JDS could consider it only if it is a minus Siddaramaiah formula. The JDS's allergy to the current CM is quite evident. He was expelled from the JDS and went on to join the Congress party. At almost every rally Siddaramaiah ridicules the secular credentials of the JDS, calling it the BJP's B team.

But the A team of the BJP is not exactly sure of the alleged B team. Deve Gowda is a factor that can swing either way. In the A team, it is Mr A who has parked himself in the state and decided on ticket distribution. Amit Shah in his typical style has made it a do-or-die battle for his team. Chief Minister candidate Yeddyurappa has been relegated to playing second fiddle. He has been on a massive sulk for weeks on end, as his list of candidates found no space during ticket distribution and the straw that broke the camel's back was when his son was denied the ticket from Varuna constituency. Yeddyurappa's son B.Y. Raghavendra may find a place in the hopefuls for 2019 Lok Sabha polls, at least that is what it seems is the carrot held to him. There were very strong rumours that Yeddyurappa was grooming his son to take over from him, half way through his tenure of Chief Ministership citing ill health. But that wasn't to be. Not just that, now it appears that Yeddyurappa may not be sharing stage with PM Modi in all the rallies that is on the itinerary. The CM candidate is barely interacting with his party colleagues. He doesn't take calls of spokespersons or party leaders his staff is almost as miffed as their boss. 
The Lingayat leader will carry the vote of the largest voting bloc in the state it seems but may not carry the confidence of his own party. Articles have started appearing in the regional press that there is talk in the BJP that they might ditch Yeddyurappa if he fails to enthuse voters. In all likelihood Modi will galvanize the public more than the party's CM candidate, who seems listless and confused at most rallies. He is no match for Siddaramaiah when it comes to punch filled speeches, but he has the benefit of belonging to the largest caste grouping in the state and the blessings of a number of Lingayat seers.

With no wave visible till two weeks before polling day, it seems like the chief minister candidates will have to cajole dissenters or crush internal dissonances in the party to appear strong and capable of leading their party. Karnataka goes to polls on 12th May 2018 in all 224 constituencies simultaneously. Results will be declared on 15th May.&nbsp

The two front runners for the post of Chief minister of Karnataka state, Siddaramaiah of the Congress Party and B.S. Yeddyurappa of the BJP are repeatedly assuring their voters that they will head the government if their respective party is elected to power, but the fact is that both are unsure of the support of their own party colleagues in the matter

The two front runners for the post of Chief minister of Karnataka state, Siddaramaiah of the Congress Party and B.S. Yeddyurappa of the BJP are repeatedly assuring their voters that they will head the government if their respective party is elected to power, but the fact is that both are unsure of the support of their own party colleagues in the matter. Siddaramaiah's doesn't just need to fight the BJP he has people within the party who have been openly dissenting with his nomination as the CM candidate. Though he is the sitting chief minister of the only large Congress ruling state in the country, his party colleagues who are far senior to him, feel that he should have made way to someone else this time, like say Leader of the Opposition in Parliament and Dalit leader Mallikarjun Kharge or the very popular and influential D.K. Shivakumar. But Siddaramaiah had Rahul Gandhi's ear, and convinced him that he would deliver victory. Therefore the sharp and shrewd Kuruba caste leader had a completely free run in the selection of candidates. Winnability and caste affiliations were the deciding factors in allotting tickets. The result is that others in the party were piqued, which is evident in their body language when sharing the stage with Siddaramaiah. When the CM speaks they chatter amongst each other or look disinterestedly at the audience, even glowering when slogans are raised praising Siddaramaiah. Actually, this isn't in the tradition of the Congress party. When a Gandhi is on stage, slogans are only for RG. But its different in Karnataka where regionalism off late has become important for its people. The crowd whistles and laughs out loud at all the playing to the gallery that Siddaramaiah does. RG is not getting the same response. People are polite, they smile at him, get selfies taken with him but voluble support is only for Siddaramaiah. But crowds and promises need not always translate into votes. He has a tough two weeks ahead of him. In both the constituencies that he is contesting from, Chamundeshwari and Badami, his rivals are strong and have vowed to defeat him at any cost. There are many in the Congress who whisper that some big guns in the Congress would relish the prospect of a Congress win minus Siddaramaiah. If Siddaramaiah loses in both his constituencies then he can hardly make a claim to be CM. In the event of a hung assembly, the Congress could approach the Janata Dal (S) for support to form an anti-BJP coalition. The JDS could consider it only if it is a minus Siddaramaiah formula. The JDS's allergy to the current CM is quite evident. He was expelled from the JDS and went on to join the Congress party. At almost every rally Siddaramaiah ridicules the secular credentials of the JDS, calling it the BJP's B team. But the A team of the BJP is not exactly sure of the alleged B team. Deve Gowda is a factor that can swing either way. In the A team, it is Mr A who has parked himself in the state and decided on ticket distribution. Amit Shah in his typical style has made it a do-or-die battle for his team. Chief Minister candidate Yeddyurappa has been relegated to playing second fiddle. He has been on a massive sulk for weeks on end, as his list of candidates found no space during ticket distribution and the straw that broke the camel's back was when his son was denied the ticket from Varuna constituency. Yeddyurappa's son B.Y. Raghavendra may find a place in the hopefuls for 2019 Lok Sabha polls, at least that is what it seems is the carrot held to him. There were very strong rumours that Yeddyurappa was grooming his son to take over from him, half way through his tenure of Chief Ministership citing ill health. But that wasn't to be. Not just that, now it appears that Yeddyurappa may not be sharing stage with PM Modi in all the rallies that is on the itinerary. The CM candidate is barely interacting with his party colleagues. He doesn't take calls of spokespersons or party leaders his staff is almost as miffed as their boss. The Lingayat leader will carry the vote of the largest voting bloc in the state it seems but may not carry the confidence of his own party. Articles have started appearing in the regional press that there is talk in the BJP that they might ditch Yeddyurappa if he fails to enthuse voters. In all likelihood Modi will galvanize the public more than the party's CM candidate, who seems listless and confused at most rallies. He is no match for Siddaramaiah when it comes to punch filled speeches, but he has the benefit of belonging to the largest caste grouping in the state and the blessings of a number of Lingayat seers. With no wave visible till two weeks before polling day, it seems like the chief minister candidates will have to cajole dissenters or crush internal dissonances in the party to appear strong and capable of leading their party. Karnataka goes to polls on 12th May 2018 in all 224 constituencies simultaneously. Results will be declared on 15th May.

The loneliness of Karnataka's CM candidates

About 2655 candidates, including 219 women, are contesting elections in the upcoming Karnataka polls, which is heading for elections on May 12.

The results of the state with 224&nbsp;will be declared on May 15.

The BJP will contest on 224 seats while the Congress will hold elections on 222 seats. The HD Devegowda-led Janata Dal-Secular will contest 201 seats.

The highest number of 39 candidates will be fielded in Mulbagal constituency in Kolar district. Whereas Challakere in Chitradurga will field four candidates, the least number of candidates in any constituency.

A recent data released, shows that in 2013, 3693 candidates filed their nominations for contesting the polls. while this year 3509 have filed their nominations.&nbsp;

In 2013, 744 candidates' nominations were withdrawn or rejected, while in 2018, 854 nominations have been withdrawn or rejected.&nbsp;

In 2018, 2436 males will contest the elections as compared to 2788 in 2013.While 219 women will contest the elections as opposed to 170 in 2013.

About 832 candidates registered from unrecognised political parties in the polls in 2013 while this year 800 candidates registered.&nbsp;

1155 independent candidates will contest the polls as compared to 1223 in 2013.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

The BJP will contest on 224 seats while the Congress will hold elections on 222 seats. The HD Devegowda-led Janata Dal-Secular will contest 201 seats

About 2655 candidates, including 219 women, are contesting elections in the upcoming Karnataka polls, which is heading for elections on May 12. The results of the state with 224 will be declared on May 15. The BJP will contest on 224 seats while the Congress will hold elections on 222 seats. The HD Devegowda-led Janata Dal-Secular will contest 201 seats. The highest number of 39 candidates will be fielded in Mulbagal constituency in Kolar district. Whereas Challakere in Chitradurga will field four candidates, the least number of candidates in any constituency. A recent data released, shows that in 2013, 3693 candidates filed their nominations for contesting the polls. while this year 3509 have filed their nominations. In 2013, 744 candidates' nominations were withdrawn or rejected, while in 2018, 854 nominations have been withdrawn or rejected. In 2018, 2436 males will contest the elections as compared to 2788 in 2013.While 219 women will contest the elections as opposed to 170 in 2013. About 832 candidates registered from unrecognised political parties in the polls in 2013 while this year 800 candidates registered. 1155 independent candidates will contest the polls as compared to 1223 in 2013. (With inputs from ANI)

2655 candidates to contest in Karnataka elections

The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee has sent a letter to the Election Commission against Janardhan Reddy,&nbsp;former Minister of the state government over his comments on Siddaramaiah.

The letter filed by the Congress committee said that while campaigning for a BJP candidate Sriramulu,&nbsp;Reddy has said that the BJP had fielded the candidate to kill Siddharavana.

The complaint quoted Reddy as saying, "Sriramulu has been fielded by BJP to kill Siddharavana". Siddharavana which means " demon" reportedly referred to Siddaramaiah.

The former Union Minister had called the chief minister Siddaramaiah "Ravana" while comparing Sriramulu to "Rama".

Sriramulu is contesting against Siddaramaiah from Badami constituency.

In its complaint, the Congress has sought an action against Reddy.

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Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee sent a letter to EC against Janardhan Reddy,ex-Min of Karnataka govt,saying while campaigning for BJP candidate Sriramulu at Molakalmuru, Reddy said, "Sriramulu has been fielded by BJP to kill Siddharavana", referring to Siddaramaiah as demon.
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&nbsp;

The letter filed by the Congress committee said that while campaigning for a BJP candidate Sriramulu, Reddy has said that the BJP had fielded the candidate to kill Siddharavana

The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee has sent a letter to the Election Commission against Janardhan Reddy, former Minister of the state government over his comments on Siddaramaiah. The letter filed by the Congress committee said that while campaigning for a BJP candidate Sriramulu, Reddy has said that the BJP had fielded the candidate to kill Siddharavana. The complaint quoted Reddy as saying, "Sriramulu has been fielded by BJP to kill Siddharavana". Siddharavana which means " demon" reportedly referred to Siddaramaiah. The former Union Minister had called the chief minister Siddaramaiah "Ravana" while comparing Sriramulu to "Rama". Sriramulu is contesting against Siddaramaiah from Badami constituency. In its complaint, the Congress has sought an action against Reddy. Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee sent a letter to EC against Janardhan Reddy,ex-Min of Karnataka govt,saying while campaigning for BJP candidate Sriramulu at Molakalmuru, Reddy said, "Sriramulu has been fielded by BJP to kill Siddharavana", referring to Siddaramaiah as demon. — ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2018 ×

Karnataka elections: Congress moves EC over ex-minister's comment on Siddaramaiah

As the extradition battle continued in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-back-in-uk-court-for-extradition-hearing-133241">UK court, ex-liquor baron Vijay Mallya </a>said even though it is his "democratic right" to vote in the impending Karnataka Assembly elections but his bail conditions won't allow him to leave the UK.

"It is my democratic right to vote in Karnataka but conditions of my bail are such that I cannot leave the UK," Mallya said as he stepped in court for another day of extradition hearing in the UK court.

Mallya, 62, has been involved in a court case filed by the Indian government accusing him of fraud in default case amounting to over 9,000 crores from Indian banks.

"I haven't been following the politics there so cannot comment on the political developments," he added.

The Westminister court had earlier denied Mallya's extradition. The Indian government appealed again, in the last hearing, the judge said it was "blindingly obvious" that Indian banks had broken rules to sanction loans to Mallya.

"There are clear signs that the banks seem to have gone against their own guidelines (in sanctioning some of the loans)," the judge said.

The judge requested the Indian government to explain the activities of the bank officials involved in extending loans to Mallya.

Mallya is currently on a 650,000-pound bail since April last year after his arrest by Scotland Yard.

The Westminister court had earlier denied Mallya's extradition.

As the extradition battle continued in a UK court, ex-liquor baron Vijay Mallya said even though it is his "democratic right" to vote in the impending Karnataka Assembly elections but his bail conditions won't allow him to leave the UK. "It is my democratic right to vote in Karnataka but conditions of my bail are such that I cannot leave the UK," Mallya said as he stepped in court for another day of extradition hearing in the UK court. Mallya, 62, has been involved in a court case filed by the Indian government accusing him of fraud in default case amounting to over 9,000 crores from Indian banks. "I haven't been following the politics there so cannot comment on the political developments," he added. The Westminister court had earlier denied Mallya's extradition. The Indian government appealed again, in the last hearing, the judge said it was "blindingly obvious" that Indian banks had broken rules to sanction loans to Mallya. "There are clear signs that the banks seem to have gone against their own guidelines (in sanctioning some of the loans)," the judge said. The judge requested the Indian government to explain the activities of the bank officials involved in extending loans to Mallya. Mallya is currently on a 650,000-pound bail since April last year after his arrest by Scotland Yard.

'My democratic right to vote in Karnataka elections,' says Vijay Mallya

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reset the tone in the middle of Bharatiya Janata Party's election campaign in Karnataka. Unlike Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat where the party's campaign was centered around Pakistan, national security and cemetery, his speech on Thursday morning was focused on the issues of developmental work done by his government. The message was about number and data crunching. His speech was a comparison between his work of four years and that of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for the same period in context of Karnataka. 
&nbsp; 
Why did he do so? For the simple reason that BJP is finding it difficult to handle Siddaramaiah on his own pitch. His party the Congress, which is ruling Karnataka, has built its campaign around social sector schemes for poor and backward castes, sense of regional pride centred around flag, language and injustice, and acknowledgement of Lingayats as separate religion. The Lingayat issue has become a thorn and for this reason PM Modi, without going into the detail, accused Congress of caste hunting in every election. 
&nbsp; 
Siddaramaiah's campaign also revolves around his personality. It exudes the confidence of a strong regional leader who has the capacity to take on the might of Modi. Similar narrative was successfully milked by Modi himself when he was the chief minister of Gujarat. The water of Narmada was turned into an issue of injustice. Similarly, Siddaramaiah has turned the issue of funds for the agricultural sector into sense of injustice to the state. Modi too represented regional pride when he was the chief minister so all the social development data campaign of the Congress failed repeatedly.

Modi that way has taken a risk. In 2012, when Congress built a campaign on economic index, it failed in front of 'Gujarati asmita' which Modi evoked. But from electoral perspective, BJP in Karnataka has been left with no choice.

Even Yedyurrapa has failed to campaign like a regional stalwart. The message in the electorate is that BJP president Amit Shah is calling all the shots unlike Siddaramaiah who has successfully cultivated the image of a leader who is impervious to the machinations of the Delhi-based leaders. The message is that Siddaramaiah gets his way with Congress leadership. Though Yedyrappa has been given prominence in posters with Modi and Shah, it has not achieved that standing in people's eyes. It is for this reason that the BJP is trying to shift goal posts to development and work done by the Centre. Though Modi in his speech said that he is a proud Kannadiga, it will take more than that for the BJP to turn this electoral battle around.

Till now, BJP has only been responding to the Congress's campaign. Barring Bengaluru civic issues, its campaign has really not created a buzz. If they want to wrest Karnataka, the BJP will have to strike an emotional chord with voters as to why they should be voted back as elections are purely anchored around emotive issues like identity, pride and justice.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Modi has taken a risk by focusing on developmental issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reset the tone in the middle of Bharatiya Janata Party's election campaign in Karnataka. Unlike Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat where the party's campaign was centered around Pakistan, national security and cemetery, his speech on Thursday morning was focused on the issues of developmental work done by his government. The message was about number and data crunching. His speech was a comparison between his work of four years and that of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for the same period in context of Karnataka. Why did he do so? For the simple reason that BJP is finding it difficult to handle Siddaramaiah on his own pitch. His party the Congress, which is ruling Karnataka, has built its campaign around social sector schemes for poor and backward castes, sense of regional pride centred around flag, language and injustice, and acknowledgement of Lingayats as separate religion. The Lingayat issue has become a thorn and for this reason PM Modi, without going into the detail, accused Congress of caste hunting in every election. Siddaramaiah's campaign also revolves around his personality. It exudes the confidence of a strong regional leader who has the capacity to take on the might of Modi. Similar narrative was successfully milked by Modi himself when he was the chief minister of Gujarat. The water of Narmada was turned into an issue of injustice. Similarly, Siddaramaiah has turned the issue of funds for the agricultural sector into sense of injustice to the state. Modi too represented regional pride when he was the chief minister so all the social development data campaign of the Congress failed repeatedly. Modi that way has taken a risk. In 2012, when Congress built a campaign on economic index, it failed in front of 'Gujarati asmita' which Modi evoked. But from electoral perspective, BJP in Karnataka has been left with no choice. Even Yedyurrapa has failed to campaign like a regional stalwart. The message in the electorate is that BJP president Amit Shah is calling all the shots unlike Siddaramaiah who has successfully cultivated the image of a leader who is impervious to the machinations of the Delhi-based leaders. The message is that Siddaramaiah gets his way with Congress leadership. Though Yedyrappa has been given prominence in posters with Modi and Shah, it has not achieved that standing in people's eyes. It is for this reason that the BJP is trying to shift goal posts to development and work done by the Centre. Though Modi in his speech said that he is a proud Kannadiga, it will take more than that for the BJP to turn this electoral battle around. Till now, BJP has only been responding to the Congress's campaign. Barring Bengaluru civic issues, its campaign has really not created a buzz. If they want to wrest Karnataka, the BJP will have to strike an emotional chord with voters as to why they should be voted back as elections are purely anchored around emotive issues like identity, pride and justice. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: PM Modi resets Karnataka campaign tone

Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed to make a reference to Cambridge Analytica on Thursday while <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/development-is-the-only-agenda-of-my-government-pm-modi--132901">speaking to the Karnataka BJP</a>.&nbsp;Modi was speaking to his party's workers and candidates before the upcoming Karnataka elections.&nbsp;

"So, you will have to fight against lies, false propaganda. As part of a conspiracy, efforts will be made to mislead you by hiring foreign agencies. Karyakartas (party workers) should not be shaken, their trust should not be shaken," he said.

There have been reports here that Cambridge Analytica — the UK firm accused of trying to swing the US presidential election Trump's way — may have been engaged by political parties here.&nbsp;

"The Congress, after repeated defeat in elections, is spreading lies. Earlier, out of 50 things they said there were 5-10 lies. Now, out of the 50 things they say, 40-45 are lies and the rest five would also lack clarity," Modi said.&nbsp;

The prime minister added there was a need to cleanse Indian politics of Congress culture.

"The mainstream of India's political culture is associated with Congress' misdeeds. Unless we liberate this mainstream from Congress culture, we cannot cleanse Indian politics," he said.

Modi also seemed to refer to pre-poll surveys indicating a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-survey-indicates-photo-finish-by-congress-bjp-132478">photo finish</a> by the Congress and BJP in the upcoming Karnataka elections.&nbsp;

The prime minister said "false propaganda" about a fractured mandate was being spread as part of a "conspiracy".

"A government with absolute majority is needed to change Karnataka's destiny. India is shining in the world today only because we have a government which has a complete majority at the Centre after 30 years," Modi said, asking BJP workers to endeavour to achieve that goal in the only big state the Congress still rules over apart from Punjab.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

'You will have to fight against lies, false propaganda. As part of a conspiracy, efforts will be made to mislead you by hiring foreign agencies,' Modi told BJP workers and candidates before the upcoming state elections

Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed to make a reference to Cambridge Analytica on Thursday while speaking to the Karnataka BJP. Modi was speaking to his party's workers and candidates before the upcoming Karnataka elections. "So, you will have to fight against lies, false propaganda. As part of a conspiracy, efforts will be made to mislead you by hiring foreign agencies. Karyakartas (party workers) should not be shaken, their trust should not be shaken," he said. There have been reports here that Cambridge Analytica — the UK firm accused of trying to swing the US presidential election Trump's way — may have been engaged by political parties here. "The Congress, after repeated defeat in elections, is spreading lies. Earlier, out of 50 things they said there were 5-10 lies. Now, out of the 50 things they say, 40-45 are lies and the rest five would also lack clarity," Modi said. The prime minister added there was a need to cleanse Indian politics of Congress culture. "The mainstream of India's political culture is associated with Congress' misdeeds. Unless we liberate this mainstream from Congress culture, we cannot cleanse Indian politics," he said. Modi also seemed to refer to pre-poll surveys indicating a photo finish by the Congress and BJP in the upcoming Karnataka elections. The prime minister said "false propaganda" about a fractured mandate was being spread as part of a "conspiracy". "A government with absolute majority is needed to change Karnataka's destiny. India is shining in the world today only because we have a government which has a complete majority at the Centre after 30 years," Modi said, asking BJP workers to endeavour to achieve that goal in the only big state the Congress still rules over apart from Punjab. (With inputs from PTI)

'Foreign agencies' may mislead you, Modi tells Karnataka BJP in apparent reference to Cambridge Analytica

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah will contest from two seats, Chamundeshwari in Mysuru district and Badami in Bagalkot district (north Karnataka), in the assembly elections on 12 May.

Siddaramaiah has filed the nomination from both the constituency Badami and Chamundeshwari.

The decision on the seats for Siddaramaiah, whose political career has mostly been in the southern part of the state, comes at a time when Karnataka is witnessing one of its most fiercely contested elections in recent times.

On April 20, he had filed his nomination papers from Chamundeshwari constituency.

The&nbsp;elections in the state will be held on May 12 and result will be out on May 15.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, files nomination from Badami constituency.

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah will contest from two seats, Chamundeshwari in Mysuru district and Badami in Bagalkot district (north Karnataka), in the assembly elections on 12 May. Siddaramaiah has filed the nomination from both the constituency Badami and Chamundeshwari. The decision on the seats for Siddaramaiah, whose political career has mostly been in the southern part of the state, comes at a time when Karnataka is witnessing one of its most fiercely contested elections in recent times. On April 20, he had filed his nomination papers from Chamundeshwari constituency. The elections in the state will be held on May 12 and result will be out on May 15.

Karnataka elections 2018: Siddaramaiah to contest from Chamundeshwari, Badami

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will file his nomination from Badami constituency in north Karnataka on April 24 between 2-3 pm.

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The leader has already filed his nomination from Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysore.

Siddaramaiah had expressed his desire to contest from Chamundeshwari, however, the party wanted him to contest from Badami constituency as well, reports suggest.

The Badami constituency has a strong presence of Kuruba community, which Siddaramaiah belongs to.&nbsp;

He had said earlier that he would leave the decision of contesting from two constituencies on senior party leaders.&nbsp;

The party, in its list of candidates contesting for the polls, had named Dr Devraj Patil as a nominee from Baduni. However, the party had put a hold on his B-form. In its final list of candidates, the party&nbsp;had replaced the name of Dr Patil with that of Siddaramaiah.

His desire to contest from two constituencies was not appreciated by veteran party leaders Mallikarjuna Kharge and Veerappa Moily.

Siddaramaiah had been representing Varuna constituency in Mysore since 2008. He later gave up the constituency for his son Dr Yatindra.

He won five times from Chamundeshwari and was defeated twice from the seat.&nbsp;

He will file the nomination in Badami constituency on April 24. The constituency has a strong presence of Kuruba community, which Siddaramaiah belongs to.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will file his nomination from Badami constituency in north Karnataka on April 24 between 2-3 pm. × The leader has already filed his nomination from Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysore. Siddaramaiah had expressed his desire to contest from Chamundeshwari, however, the party wanted him to contest from Badami constituency as well, reports suggest. The Badami constituency has a strong presence of Kuruba community, which Siddaramaiah belongs to. He had said earlier that he would leave the decision of contesting from two constituencies on senior party leaders. The party, in its list of candidates contesting for the polls, had named Dr Devraj Patil as a nominee from Baduni. However, the party had put a hold on his B-form. In its final list of candidates, the party had replaced the name of Dr Patil with that of Siddaramaiah. His desire to contest from two constituencies was not appreciated by veteran party leaders Mallikarjuna Kharge and Veerappa Moily. Siddaramaiah had been representing Varuna constituency in Mysore since 2008. He later gave up the constituency for his son Dr Yatindra. He won five times from Chamundeshwari and was defeated twice from the seat.

Karnataka elections: Siddaramaiah to file nomination from second constituency on Tuesday

BJP today released its&nbsp;fourth list of candidates for the Karnataka elections due to be held next month.

The list comprised of seven candidates. On Friday, the party had released its third list of 59 candidates which included the mining barons - Reddy brothers -&nbsp;and an actor.

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BJP releases fourth list of 7 candidates for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/awjRV68sVG">pic.twitter.com/awjRV68sVG</a>
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The list also included sons of two BJP leaders, Gopal Karjol and Arun Somanna.

 
The BJP has so far announced names of 220 candidates in four lists for the 224-member state assembly.

 
Karnataka will go to the polls on 12th May and the results will be declared three days later on 15th May.

The BJP has so far announced names of 220 candidates in four lists for the 224-member state assembly.

BJP today released its fourth list of candidates for the Karnataka elections due to be held next month. The list comprised of seven candidates. On Friday, the party had released its third list of 59 candidates which included the mining barons - Reddy brothers - and an actor. BJP releases fourth list of 7 candidates for #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/awjRV68sVG — ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2018 × The list also included sons of two BJP leaders, Gopal Karjol and Arun Somanna. The BJP has so far announced names of 220 candidates in four lists for the 224-member state assembly. Karnataka will go to the polls on 12th May and the results will be declared three days later on 15th May.

Karnataka elections: BJP releases fourth list

BJP and Congress are locked in a bitter battle in the southern state of Karnataka. For Congress, it is a battle of survival and retaining the state is crucial as it is the only big state under its kitty. On the other hand, Karnataka is where BJP wants to prove a point. Its southern foray till date has only been successful in this state. BJP was able to form the government in 2008. Losing the state would be akin to losing the battle of the South. HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar is the election in-charge for the state. He spoke at length about BJP’s strategy and issues plaguing the state. He said that BJP will wrest the state away from Congress. Lingayat issue and language politics will not sway the voters as people will vote on the basis of work done by the Congress, he said and added that BJP is under no tacit alliance with JD (S) and will not require anyone’s support to form the government.

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Q: How confident is BJP of winning the election? 
A: We will win this election by a huge margin. We will form the government with a full majority. There will be no hung assembly. 
&nbsp; 
Q: What are the primary issues for the BJP in the state assembly election? 
A: Our issues are about people. 2500 farmers have committed suicide in the state. Farmers suicide has increased in the last five years. The government of the state has failed miserably. Centre had to intervene and help the farmers. Rural distress is a reality here. 85 percent of the area in Karnataka is rural. There is a law and order problem in the state. Corruption too is an issue. &nbsp;It is a corrupt government and people want change. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Congress has alleged on the other hand that despite a strong drought Maharashtra received more money than Karnataka? 
A: Karnataka CM has seen both UPA and NDA function. The state during UPA received only Rs. 88,000 crores while under us they have been receiving 2 lakh 19 thousand crore rupees. On top of it many schemes like highways, Centre has invested money in great volume. &nbsp;We have not discriminated against Karnataka. State government did not utilize the funds properly.

Q: Is corruption an issue in Karnataka? 
A: Yes. It is one of the major issues. Sand mafia is ruling the state. Sand which cost Rs. 3000 per truck today costs Rs.30,000. Today sand is being imported from Malaysia. The same sand is cheaper in Chennai if compared to rates in Bengaluru. It is a commission Sarkar. It is a 10 percent government. It is a Siddha-rupaiya Sarkar. 
&nbsp; 
Q: In most of the assembly elections, BJP dictated the narrative but it seems in Karnataka, Congress is driving the political narrative? 
A: I disagree. The situation on the ground has changed. It may have been true for 2017 but 2018 is different. Congress is in a defensive mode. In last 4 years, Congress lost 10 states. This is going to be their 11. Karnataka will be our 21st state and it will reduce Congress to Congress P, which means Congress (Punjab-Pondicherry). 
&nbsp; 
Q: What is your party’s position on Lingayat issue? 
A: The policy of the Congress is that of divide and rule. I was in charge of Manipur, they divided Kukis, Metis and Nagas. Our policy is to unite and prosper. This issue will impact the Congress. Many people advised CM not to do it but the Congress went ahead thinking that it will stop BS Yeddyurappa from becoming the Chief Minister. 
&nbsp; 
Q: But Yeddyurappa himself as a Chief Minister, petitioned the UPA government which was rejected by them?

A: This government did nothing in last 4 years except to take up this issue in last two months. In 2013, UPA government rejected. This is an electoral gimmick. It is pure politics. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Why do leaders of all political parties keep on visiting Mathas? 
A: Mathas are not only about Lingayats. Mathas in Karnataka have played an important role in social reforms. They have done a good job in the field of education. They took education to all corners of the state and to all sections of the society. Kannadiga philosophy is to live and let live. Like temples, people also go to mathas. 
&nbsp; 
Q: There is an assertion of language in the state and then the issue of the flag. Where does BJP stand in all of this? 
A: Diversity is the strength of this country and culture. We respect diversity and all languages and we are committed to developing all Indian languages. Karnataka state also has a song. It is a good thing. But all of this will not create a separate electorate for the Congress. People cannot be divided on these issues.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Q: What about the flag? 
A: It is a technical issue and it is not an issue in this election. Concerned departments are looking into the issue. 
&nbsp; 
Q: How do you look at incidents of violence which have taken place in coastal Karnataka? 
A: It is organised violence. 25 BJP workers have been killed. PFI goons are behind it. They come here kill and go back. This government hobnobs with them. They have support from SDPI. They are in alliance with Congress in Bengaluru corporation. There is no serious effort to control these goons. Being a patriot is not a sin in this country. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Why is BJP being targeted? 
A: There are many reasons. Terror organisations are behind and the government has failed to protect the citizens. 
&nbsp; 
Q. Siddaramaiah says that 15th Finance Commission is not fair to us? 
A: Let me clarify. The whole discussion is about terms of reference. Those who have ensured population control should be encouraged and given funds but a state which is poor and have large population should also be able to receive grants. It is not a one point formula. It takes diversity and regional imbalances into account. There will be no injustice to Karnataka. Unfortunately, this government has failed to utilize the funds and 15th Commission will be fair and accommodate everyone. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Karnataka CM also said that this election about communalism Vs secularism? 
A: It is not. It is nationalism vs pseudo-secularism. We are fighting elections on the issue of development. Congress has lost touch with poor people. Once upon a time, they had this plank now it has gone to BJP. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Congress says that its national revival will start from Karnataka? 
A: Daydreaming is not banned. The fact remains we will win this state. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Your party has expanded a lot after 2014 elections. You have done well in urban seats in past what have you done to push yourself in rural areas and southern Karnataka? 
A: Our base is in rural areas. We will sweep Bengaluru. We do have a problem with a couple of seats but that’s about it. There will be no hung assembly. We will get an absolute majority. 
&nbsp; 
Q: What about the narrative that JD (S) may become a kingmaker eventually? 
A: If someone wants to take relief from such scenarios, let them. Fact remains that hung assembly will not happen. People love Modi. There will be a decisive change in Karnataka. Yeddyurappa is the rural face of the state. 
&nbsp; 
Q: What about pending projects like Mahadayi river issue? It remains unresolved? 
A: Congress created the mess. Goa Congress was opposed to it when Goa CM very graciously had said that 7.5 TMC water will be provided to Karnataka. There is a problem of water scarcity in the country. We will have to save and generate water at the same time. 
&nbsp; 
Q: It is being said that BJP has a tacit understanding with JD (S). Your comments? 
A: Absolutely not. It is a triangular contest. JD (S) is in a pocket. Congress is spread through the state and barring few districts. We are also spread through the state. We are fighting this election on our own. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Regional parties are tying up with each other. It is happening in Karnataka as well. How do you see this development? 
A: Everyone is free to do what they want in the country. We have our ideology and commitment. We will be voted in for good governance. Let people experiment. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Has BJP become the new Congress? 
A: When we opposed Congress, it was based on ideology. The opportunistic alliance has no future because they are not based on ideology. I don’t think it will succeed. We are the largest party in the world. We have 11 crore members. Page pramukhs are our strength. 
&nbsp; 
Q: What is your party’s position on the controversies caused by Ananth Kumar Hegde? 
A: He has clarified in Parliament and apologized. On certain issues, he has his own learning curve and on certain issues, we have made it clear that if someone speaks out of party line, we will not endorse it. 
&nbsp; 
Q: What is going to be the schedule of the PM? 
A: He will start campaigning from 1st May. His campaign will create a good momentum for us. 
&nbsp; 
Q: Lastly, why is Karnataka important to you? 
A: Karnataka is important in our scheme of things as it deserves much better. We will bring transparency to the government and ensure people’s participation. Centre and state will work closely. 
&nbsp; 
Q Any message for the Bangaloreans? 
A: We have launched a special campaign for the city. A garden city has been converted into a garbage city. A city of lakes has been converted into a city of lakes on fire. A beautiful city has been turned into a city of potholes where 16 people have died because of accidents. IT city has become a crime city. We will work on all these fronts. New Bengaluru for New India is our signature campaign. 
&nbsp;

Lingayat issue and language politics will not sway the voters as people will vote on the basis of work done by the Congress, says Prakash Javadekar

BJP and Congress are locked in a bitter battle in the southern state of Karnataka. For Congress, it is a battle of survival and retaining the state is crucial as it is the only big state under its kitty. On the other hand, Karnataka is where BJP wants to prove a point. Its southern foray till date has only been successful in this state. BJP was able to form the government in 2008. Losing the state would be akin to losing the battle of the South. HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar is the election in-charge for the state. He spoke at length about BJP’s strategy and issues plaguing the state. He said that BJP will wrest the state away from Congress. Lingayat issue and language politics will not sway the voters as people will vote on the basis of work done by the Congress, he said and added that BJP is under no tacit alliance with JD (S) and will not require anyone’s support to form the government. × Q: How confident is BJP of winning the election? A: We will win this election by a huge margin. We will form the government with a full majority. There will be no hung assembly. Q: What are the primary issues for the BJP in the state assembly election? A: Our issues are about people. 2500 farmers have committed suicide in the state. Farmers suicide has increased in the last five years. The government of the state has failed miserably. Centre had to intervene and help the farmers. Rural distress is a reality here. 85 percent of the area in Karnataka is rural. There is a law and order problem in the state. Corruption too is an issue. It is a corrupt government and people want change. Q: Congress has alleged on the other hand that despite a strong drought Maharashtra received more money than Karnataka? A: Karnataka CM has seen both UPA and NDA function. The state during UPA received only Rs. 88,000 crores while under us they have been receiving 2 lakh 19 thousand crore rupees. On top of it many schemes like highways, Centre has invested money in great volume. We have not discriminated against Karnataka. State government did not utilize the funds properly. Q: Is corruption an issue in Karnataka? A: Yes. It is one of the major issues. Sand mafia is ruling the state. Sand which cost Rs. 3000 per truck today costs Rs.30,000. Today sand is being imported from Malaysia. The same sand is cheaper in Chennai if compared to rates in Bengaluru. It is a commission Sarkar. It is a 10 percent government. It is a Siddha-rupaiya Sarkar. Q: In most of the assembly elections, BJP dictated the narrative but it seems in Karnataka, Congress is driving the political narrative? A: I disagree. The situation on the ground has changed. It may have been true for 2017 but 2018 is different. Congress is in a defensive mode. In last 4 years, Congress lost 10 states. This is going to be their 11. Karnataka will be our 21st state and it will reduce Congress to Congress P, which means Congress (Punjab-Pondicherry). Q: What is your party’s position on Lingayat issue? A: The policy of the Congress is that of divide and rule. I was in charge of Manipur, they divided Kukis, Metis and Nagas. Our policy is to unite and prosper. This issue will impact the Congress. Many people advised CM not to do it but the Congress went ahead thinking that it will stop BS Yeddyurappa from becoming the Chief Minister. Q: But Yeddyurappa himself as a Chief Minister, petitioned the UPA government which was rejected by them? A: This government did nothing in last 4 years except to take up this issue in last two months. In 2013, UPA government rejected. This is an electoral gimmick. It is pure politics. Q: Why do leaders of all political parties keep on visiting Mathas? A: Mathas are not only about Lingayats. Mathas in Karnataka have played an important role in social reforms. They have done a good job in the field of education. They took education to all corners of the state and to all sections of the society. Kannadiga philosophy is to live and let live. Like temples, people also go to mathas. Q: There is an assertion of language in the state and then the issue of the flag. Where does BJP stand in all of this? A: Diversity is the strength of this country and culture. We respect diversity and all languages and we are committed to developing all Indian languages. Karnataka state also has a song. It is a good thing. But all of this will not create a separate electorate for the Congress. People cannot be divided on these issues. Q: What about the flag? A: It is a technical issue and it is not an issue in this election. Concerned departments are looking into the issue. Q: How do you look at incidents of violence which have taken place in coastal Karnataka? A: It is organised violence. 25 BJP workers have been killed. PFI goons are behind it. They come here kill and go back. This government hobnobs with them. They have support from SDPI. They are in alliance with Congress in Bengaluru corporation. There is no serious effort to control these goons. Being a patriot is not a sin in this country. Q: Why is BJP being targeted? A: There are many reasons. Terror organisations are behind and the government has failed to protect the citizens. Q. Siddaramaiah says that 15th Finance Commission is not fair to us? A: Let me clarify. The whole discussion is about terms of reference. Those who have ensured population control should be encouraged and given funds but a state which is poor and have large population should also be able to receive grants. It is not a one point formula. It takes diversity and regional imbalances into account. There will be no injustice to Karnataka. Unfortunately, this government has failed to utilize the funds and 15th Commission will be fair and accommodate everyone. Q: Karnataka CM also said that this election about communalism Vs secularism? A: It is not. It is nationalism vs pseudo-secularism. We are fighting elections on the issue of development. Congress has lost touch with poor people. Once upon a time, they had this plank now it has gone to BJP. Q: Congress says that its national revival will start from Karnataka? A: Daydreaming is not banned. The fact remains we will win this state. Q: Your party has expanded a lot after 2014 elections. You have done well in urban seats in past what have you done to push yourself in rural areas and southern Karnataka? A: Our base is in rural areas. We will sweep Bengaluru. We do have a problem with a couple of seats but that’s about it. There will be no hung assembly. We will get an absolute majority. Q: What about the narrative that JD (S) may become a kingmaker eventually? A: If someone wants to take relief from such scenarios, let them. Fact remains that hung assembly will not happen. People love Modi. There will be a decisive change in Karnataka. Yeddyurappa is the rural face of the state. Q: What about pending projects like Mahadayi river issue? It remains unresolved? A: Congress created the mess. Goa Congress was opposed to it when Goa CM very graciously had said that 7.5 TMC water will be provided to Karnataka. There is a problem of water scarcity in the country. We will have to save and generate water at the same time. Q: It is being said that BJP has a tacit understanding with JD (S). Your comments? A: Absolutely not. It is a triangular contest. JD (S) is in a pocket. Congress is spread through the state and barring few districts. We are also spread through the state. We are fighting this election on our own. Q: Regional parties are tying up with each other. It is happening in Karnataka as well. How do you see this development? A: Everyone is free to do what they want in the country. We have our ideology and commitment. We will be voted in for good governance. Let people experiment. Q: Has BJP become the new Congress? A: When we opposed Congress, it was based on ideology. The opportunistic alliance has no future because they are not based on ideology. I don’t think it will succeed. We are the largest party in the world. We have 11 crore members. Page pramukhs are our strength. Q: What is your party’s position on the controversies caused by Ananth Kumar Hegde? A: He has clarified in Parliament and apologized. On certain issues, he has his own learning curve and on certain issues, we have made it clear that if someone speaks out of party line, we will not endorse it. Q: What is going to be the schedule of the PM? A: He will start campaigning from 1st May. His campaign will create a good momentum for us. Q: Lastly, why is Karnataka important to you? A: Karnataka is important in our scheme of things as it deserves much better. We will bring transparency to the government and ensure people’s participation. Centre and state will work closely. Q Any message for the Bangaloreans? A: We have launched a special campaign for the city. A garden city has been converted into a garbage city. A city of lakes has been converted into a city of lakes on fire. A beautiful city has been turned into a city of potholes where 16 people have died because of accidents. IT city has become a crime city. We will work on all these fronts. New Bengaluru for New India is our signature campaign.

Karnataka results will reduce Congress to Congress P (Punjab-Pondicherry): Javadekar to WION

With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S.

Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country.

He spoke to WION on a plethora of issue ranging from the Lingayats to a separate state flag for Karnataka to Bengaluru's dying lakes. Siddaramaiah's entire interview to WION follows:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Q: What makes you so confident that Congress can buck the trend of Karnataka not giving a repeat term to any government?

A: We have given good governance. Law and order is much better than previous governments. Lot of investments have come to Karnataka which is far better than other states. So, we have done well on many fronts.

Q: How have schemes like Indira Canteen and Anna Bhagya done?

A: Four crore people of Karnataka have benefitted from Anna Bhagya scheme. Seven kg of rice per head is being given free of cost. We are the only government distributing rice free of cost. We are also giving five rupees subsidy per litre to milk farmers. We are giving loans to farmers without interest up to three lakh. Certain categories of loans have been waived. We are giving milk to 1.2 crore schoolgoing children. We have taken up a number of welfare schemes to help poor. Similar support is also being extended in the education sector. We have also provided laptops. This budget, I announced that girl students will be given free education and also free bus pass to students coming to schools.

Q: What have you done in the agriculture sector and secondly, there was a lot of acrimony between you and the Centre over the issue of fund allocation?

A: Centre provided us money under norms. We were facing unprecedented drought but still they gave us funds according to the norms. Centre did not provide us additional funds. I even requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asked him to waive the loans but prime minister did not agree.

Q: Are you saying that Karnataka was discriminated against?

A: &nbsp;As per the NDRF funds are concerned, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu got more funds than us. Karnataka is getting less funds. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-mos-to-wion-ruling-party-not-facing-anti-incumbency-for-first-time-in-30-years-130659">It is discrimination</a>. I requested the Prime Minister to set aside the injustice being done to Karnataka.

Q: You had strong issues pertaining to the 15th Finance Commission?

A: Population cannot be a criteria for fund. UP and Bihar have not implemented family programme and they are getting more money. We have implemented it and we are ending up getting less money. It is not fair.

Q: Why did you shift your seat?

A: Two years back, my son was looking after the constituency and I had announced that I’m not going to fight the elections. My son passed away last year and my second son started looking after the constituency. Now people want him to contest. Chamundeshwari was my old constituency. I have successfully contested elections from the seat. I have been in touch with the people. It is a neighbouring constituency.

Q: The BJP and JD-S are happy as they feel they can tie the chief minister down to a single seat?

A: They are living in an illusion. They cannot tie me down to a seat. They are trying to defeat me. BJP and JD-S were together in a coalition. I contested as an independent when Kumaraswamy was the Chief Minister and Yeddyurappa was the deputy CM. Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy sat there for days. Even then, I got elected.

Q: Are you worried about the infighting which has erupted post ticket distribution in the Congress?

A: Only <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-struggles-to-contain-dissent-in-karnataka-congress-after-ticket-distribution-130902">four or five constituencies are affected</a>. But we are trying to tackle the issue.

Q: Do you feel that the southern perspective of a strong cultural identity of a state does not match with the northern experience of a Union?

A: The states were recognised on the basis of languages and it should remain supreme in each state. We are in federal structure and we want our language to be respected. Regional languages should reign supreme. Likewise, Lingayat religious issue was not created by us.

It was established by Basvanna in 12th century. The community wants a separate tag. All the representatives of the community met me two years ago. They said that Veerashaivas and Lingayats are separate. I referred the matter to the state Minority Commission. &nbsp;The Minority Commission, in turn, constituted an expert committee under a high court judge whose recommendation was accepted by us and which we forwarded to the Centre.

Q: The BJP says this is divide and rule...

A: This proposal also existed during BJP’s regime. We did not initiate it. In this context, they had met both Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi.

Q: What about the flag?

A: Is there a provision that states should not have own flag? In the United States, every state has its own flag so why not Karnataka. The national flag is flying above the state flag. We can have a state flag.

Q: Has Siddaramaiah become a symbol of regional pride?

A: I’m proud to say that I’m a Kannadiga and am proud to be a symbol of Kannadiga pride.

Q: Congress is organisationally weak and Modi, on the other hand, has the capacity to turn around an election? Can Modi do a Gujarat in Karnataka?&nbsp;

A: Karnataka cannot be compared with Gujarat. BJP was in power in Gujarat. Our party structure was not strong in Gujarat. Compared to previous elections, our performance was good in Gujarat. BJP cannot play a communal card in the state. People like secularism here and they will not tolerate communal card.

Q: Is Karnataka going to be an antidote to the BJP’s cultural nationalism?

A: Karnataka is being looked at by the entire country. Congress will come to power and will prove to be a stepping stone for the national politics. Modi’s government has failed. They have not fulfilled a single promise to the people of Karnataka. Look what Andhra Pradesh CM Chandra Babu Nadu is saying. Modi could not even keep the promise to the people of Andhra Pradesh.

Q: Is the Third Front a good idea for the Congress?

A: Congress and all like-minded parties should come together and fight communal elements and Congress must take a leading role.

Q: Is this election about Siddaramaiah vs Modi or Siddaramaiah vs Yeddyurappa?

A: This election is about me and Yeddyurappa. This election is about the people of Karnataka. People have to choose between me and Yeddyurappa and not Modi.

Q: I think you forgot about the JD-S. Surveys have shown strong Vokaligga consolidation for the JD-S?

A: JD-S is a regional party confined to six to seven districts in southern Karnataka. Their presence is meagre in the northern part of the state. They cannot win more than 20 to 25 seats.

Q: There was a time when Kumaraswamy went on to become the chief minister?

A: Kumaraswamy is an illusion. He is thinking of a hung assembly where he thinks that he will get to play the role of a kingmaker. This situation will not arise at all. Congress party is going to form the government in Karnataka.

Q: Don’t you think that the JD-S has been able to use the Cauvery issue?

A: How will it help JD-S? There was a tribunal order and the Karnataka government went in for appeal against it to the Supreme Court. The judgement of the tribunal was modified. 14.75 TMC of water was additionally allotted to us. JD-S cannot take advantage of this issue. People of Karnataka were happy with the Cauvery judgement.

Q: So the JD-S is not a player in the state?

A: They are not our main rival. In the&nbsp;north, we fight BJP and in south Karnataka, JD-S.

Q: What has your administration done to curb the violence rocking coastal Karnataka?

A: BJP is trying to mislead people. Law and Order situation is good in the coastal areas. They claim that 24 BJP workers have been killed by SDPI. It is not correct. Yes, 12 BJP workers have died and rest belong to other groups. It is claimed that all of them are BJP workers which is not true. Some of them were not even communal clashes.

Q: Rationalists have been targeted in your state? What have you done to protect them?

A: It is not only in Karnataka. People were also targeted in Maharashtra. The investigation is going on. They are organised criminals. In Gauri Lankesh’s case, there is considerable progress. Kalburgi’s case has already been referred to the CBI.

Q: The dying lakes of Bengaluru get a lot of global attention. What have you done to save them and what do you intend to do?

A: We have to provide world-class infrastructure to Bengaluru. All the lakes have to be developed and beautified. We need to tackle the garbage problem including congestion. These are the urgent urban issues which we intend to solve if we come to power again. 
&nbsp; 
Q: What should the Congress do to revive itself nationally? What is your advice to Rahul Gandhi?

A: Electoral victory in Karnataka will revive the Congress Party nationally. We will capture power in the Centre. Modi’s popularity is declining quickly. They will not win 2019 elections. BJP will not make it to the Centre again. Like-minded parties must come together to defeat BJP for Lok Sabha elections.

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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah added that like-minded parties must come together to defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections

With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S. Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country. He spoke to WION on a plethora of issue ranging from the Lingayats to a separate state flag for Karnataka to Bengaluru's dying lakes. Siddaramaiah's entire interview to WION follows: Q: What makes you so confident that Congress can buck the trend of Karnataka not giving a repeat term to any government? A: We have given good governance. Law and order is much better than previous governments. Lot of investments have come to Karnataka which is far better than other states. So, we have done well on many fronts. Q: How have schemes like Indira Canteen and Anna Bhagya done? A: Four crore people of Karnataka have benefitted from Anna Bhagya scheme. Seven kg of rice per head is being given free of cost. We are the only government distributing rice free of cost. We are also giving five rupees subsidy per litre to milk farmers. We are giving loans to farmers without interest up to three lakh. Certain categories of loans have been waived. We are giving milk to 1.2 crore schoolgoing children. We have taken up a number of welfare schemes to help poor. Similar support is also being extended in the education sector. We have also provided laptops. This budget, I announced that girl students will be given free education and also free bus pass to students coming to schools. Q: What have you done in the agriculture sector and secondly, there was a lot of acrimony between you and the Centre over the issue of fund allocation? A: Centre provided us money under norms. We were facing unprecedented drought but still they gave us funds according to the norms. Centre did not provide us additional funds. I even requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asked him to waive the loans but prime minister did not agree. Q: Are you saying that Karnataka was discriminated against? A: As per the NDRF funds are concerned, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu got more funds than us. Karnataka is getting less funds. It is discrimination. I requested the Prime Minister to set aside the injustice being done to Karnataka. Q: You had strong issues pertaining to the 15th Finance Commission? A: Population cannot be a criteria for fund. UP and Bihar have not implemented family programme and they are getting more money. We have implemented it and we are ending up getting less money. It is not fair. Q: Why did you shift your seat? A: Two years back, my son was looking after the constituency and I had announced that I’m not going to fight the elections. My son passed away last year and my second son started looking after the constituency. Now people want him to contest. Chamundeshwari was my old constituency. I have successfully contested elections from the seat. I have been in touch with the people. It is a neighbouring constituency. Q: The BJP and JD-S are happy as they feel they can tie the chief minister down to a single seat? A: They are living in an illusion. They cannot tie me down to a seat. They are trying to defeat me. BJP and JD-S were together in a coalition. I contested as an independent when Kumaraswamy was the Chief Minister and Yeddyurappa was the deputy CM. Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy sat there for days. Even then, I got elected. Q: Are you worried about the infighting which has erupted post ticket distribution in the Congress? A: Only four or five constituencies are affected. But we are trying to tackle the issue. Q: Do you feel that the southern perspective of a strong cultural identity of a state does not match with the northern experience of a Union? A: The states were recognised on the basis of languages and it should remain supreme in each state. We are in federal structure and we want our language to be respected. Regional languages should reign supreme. Likewise, Lingayat religious issue was not created by us. It was established by Basvanna in 12th century. The community wants a separate tag. All the representatives of the community met me two years ago. They said that Veerashaivas and Lingayats are separate. I referred the matter to the state Minority Commission. The Minority Commission, in turn, constituted an expert committee under a high court judge whose recommendation was accepted by us and which we forwarded to the Centre. Q: The BJP says this is divide and rule... A: This proposal also existed during BJP’s regime. We did not initiate it. In this context, they had met both Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi. Q: What about the flag? A: Is there a provision that states should not have own flag? In the United States, every state has its own flag so why not Karnataka. The national flag is flying above the state flag. We can have a state flag. Q: Has Siddaramaiah become a symbol of regional pride? A: I’m proud to say that I’m a Kannadiga and am proud to be a symbol of Kannadiga pride. Q: Congress is organisationally weak and Modi, on the other hand, has the capacity to turn around an election? Can Modi do a Gujarat in Karnataka? A: Karnataka cannot be compared with Gujarat. BJP was in power in Gujarat. Our party structure was not strong in Gujarat. Compared to previous elections, our performance was good in Gujarat. BJP cannot play a communal card in the state. People like secularism here and they will not tolerate communal card. Q: Is Karnataka going to be an antidote to the BJP’s cultural nationalism? A: Karnataka is being looked at by the entire country. Congress will come to power and will prove to be a stepping stone for the national politics. Modi’s government has failed. They have not fulfilled a single promise to the people of Karnataka. Look what Andhra Pradesh CM Chandra Babu Nadu is saying. Modi could not even keep the promise to the people of Andhra Pradesh. Q: Is the Third Front a good idea for the Congress? A: Congress and all like-minded parties should come together and fight communal elements and Congress must take a leading role. Q: Is this election about Siddaramaiah vs Modi or Siddaramaiah vs Yeddyurappa? A: This election is about me and Yeddyurappa. This election is about the people of Karnataka. People have to choose between me and Yeddyurappa and not Modi. Q: I think you forgot about the JD-S. Surveys have shown strong Vokaligga consolidation for the JD-S? A: JD-S is a regional party confined to six to seven districts in southern Karnataka. Their presence is meagre in the northern part of the state. They cannot win more than 20 to 25 seats. Q: There was a time when Kumaraswamy went on to become the chief minister? A: Kumaraswamy is an illusion. He is thinking of a hung assembly where he thinks that he will get to play the role of a kingmaker. This situation will not arise at all. Congress party is going to form the government in Karnataka. Q: Don’t you think that the JD-S has been able to use the Cauvery issue? A: How will it help JD-S? There was a tribunal order and the Karnataka government went in for appeal against it to the Supreme Court. The judgement of the tribunal was modified. 14.75 TMC of water was additionally allotted to us. JD-S cannot take advantage of this issue. People of Karnataka were happy with the Cauvery judgement. Q: So the JD-S is not a player in the state? A: They are not our main rival. In the north, we fight BJP and in south Karnataka, JD-S. Q: What has your administration done to curb the violence rocking coastal Karnataka? A: BJP is trying to mislead people. Law and Order situation is good in the coastal areas. They claim that 24 BJP workers have been killed by SDPI. It is not correct. Yes, 12 BJP workers have died and rest belong to other groups. It is claimed that all of them are BJP workers which is not true. Some of them were not even communal clashes. Q: Rationalists have been targeted in your state? What have you done to protect them? A: It is not only in Karnataka. People were also targeted in Maharashtra. The investigation is going on. They are organised criminals. In Gauri Lankesh’s case, there is considerable progress. Kalburgi’s case has already been referred to the CBI. Q: The dying lakes of Bengaluru get a lot of global attention. What have you done to save them and what do you intend to do? A: We have to provide world-class infrastructure to Bengaluru. All the lakes have to be developed and beautified. We need to tackle the garbage problem including congestion. These are the urgent urban issues which we intend to solve if we come to power again. Q: What should the Congress do to revive itself nationally? What is your advice to Rahul Gandhi? A: Electoral victory in Karnataka will revive the Congress Party nationally. We will capture power in the Centre. Modi’s popularity is declining quickly. They will not win 2019 elections. BJP will not make it to the Centre again. Like-minded parties must come together to defeat BJP for Lok Sabha elections.

Lingayat religious issue not created by us: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to WION

The AICC released the first list of 218 candidates on Sunday night for the Karnataka assembly elections, prompting a series of protests across the state. Protests were witnessed in Nelamangala, Siraguppa, Bengaluru, Ballari, Mandya, Chikkamagalur, Udupi, Tumkur, Bagalkote and Haveri. Supporters of ticket aspirants who were left disappointed took to the streets, shouted slogans against Siddaramaiah and burnt tyres as a mark of protest.

In Nelamangala supporters of former minister Anjanamurthy staged a rasta roko after the ticket for the constituency was given to Narayanaswamy. In Siraguppa, over 15 Congress leaders threatened to resign and called for a bandh after sitting MLA Nagraj was denied a ticket. Minister Santhosh Lad was given the ticket instead. While CM Siddaramaiah faced brickbats in some areas, veteran Congress leader Veerappa Moiley faced flak in Karkala as supporters of Uday Kumar Shetty carried out a procession and burnt effigies over ticket denial.&nbsp;

Congress tried to downplay the protests, 'it is a natural expression of a strong opinion. Everyone knows Congress is coming back to power. Therefore party workers have some strong feelings, but that will subside very soon. Out of 224 seats, dissent is hardly in 4-5 places', says Radhakrishna, Congress Spokesperson.&nbsp;

In all Congress handed tickets to 112 sitting MLAs, 10 others were denied the opportunity to contest again. The dissent also stemmed from tickets being handed over to 7 rebel JD(S) leaders who joined the party recently, which includes Zamir Ahmed Khan, Chelluvarayyasamy, Iqbal Ansasi, Ramesh Bendi Siddhagowda, Bheema Nayak, Balakrishna and Akhanda Srinivas Moorthi. Two former BJP MLAs were also handed over tickets -- Anand Singh and B Nagendra -- both of whose names feature in the illegal mining scam which had rocked the previous BJP government.&nbsp;

"Congress is known to defeat their own people. What you are seeing as an outburst shows total indiscipline. It was mild in BJP. In Bagalkote they have given ticket to Methi, but denied ticket to Chimmankatti. Popular leaders have been ignored", says Vaman Acharya, BJP Spokesperson.&nbsp;

But despite facing criticism for his choices, the chief minister himself seems to have not got his way. Though he had expressed interest to contest from two seats, Chamundeshwari and Badami, Siddaramaiah has only managed to get a ticket only from the former contituency. But this list also includes several next generation Congressis, drawing the ire of loyalists. Apart from chief minister's doctor son Yatheendra who got a ticket from Varuna, Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy's daughter Sowmya, Law Minister TB Jayachandra's son Santhosh, Mallikarjun Kharge's son Priyank, Dharam Singh's son Ajay, Krishnappa's son Priya Krishna, KH Muniyappa's daughter Roopa and Shamnur Shivashankarappa's son SS Mallikarjun have all received tickets.&nbsp;

"When Congress was in trouble in Karnataka Priya Krishna, Priyank Kharge and Ajay Singh contested for the party and won. Therefore they are not successors biologically, but are successors of Congress ideology", says Radhakrishna. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;The party is yet to name candidates for six more constituencies, among which there is Bengaluru Central's Shantinagar. Congress seems to be rethinking about a ticket for its sitting MLA in the minority-dominated constituency, NA Haris, as his son Nalapad Haris has been embroiled in a pub brawl case and has been behind bars since mid February.&nbsp;

'Congress is known to defeat their own people,' the BJP said. 'Everyone knows Congress is coming back to power. Therefore party workers have some strong feelings,' said the Congress

The AICC released the first list of 218 candidates on Sunday night for the Karnataka assembly elections, prompting a series of protests across the state. Protests were witnessed in Nelamangala, Siraguppa, Bengaluru, Ballari, Mandya, Chikkamagalur, Udupi, Tumkur, Bagalkote and Haveri. Supporters of ticket aspirants who were left disappointed took to the streets, shouted slogans against Siddaramaiah and burnt tyres as a mark of protest. In Nelamangala supporters of former minister Anjanamurthy staged a rasta roko after the ticket for the constituency was given to Narayanaswamy. In Siraguppa, over 15 Congress leaders threatened to resign and called for a bandh after sitting MLA Nagraj was denied a ticket. Minister Santhosh Lad was given the ticket instead. While CM Siddaramaiah faced brickbats in some areas, veteran Congress leader Veerappa Moiley faced flak in Karkala as supporters of Uday Kumar Shetty carried out a procession and burnt effigies over ticket denial. Congress tried to downplay the protests, 'it is a natural expression of a strong opinion. Everyone knows Congress is coming back to power. Therefore party workers have some strong feelings, but that will subside very soon. Out of 224 seats, dissent is hardly in 4-5 places', says Radhakrishna, Congress Spokesperson. In all Congress handed tickets to 112 sitting MLAs, 10 others were denied the opportunity to contest again. The dissent also stemmed from tickets being handed over to 7 rebel JD(S) leaders who joined the party recently, which includes Zamir Ahmed Khan, Chelluvarayyasamy, Iqbal Ansasi, Ramesh Bendi Siddhagowda, Bheema Nayak, Balakrishna and Akhanda Srinivas Moorthi. Two former BJP MLAs were also handed over tickets -- Anand Singh and B Nagendra -- both of whose names feature in the illegal mining scam which had rocked the previous BJP government. "Congress is known to defeat their own people. What you are seeing as an outburst shows total indiscipline. It was mild in BJP. In Bagalkote they have given ticket to Methi, but denied ticket to Chimmankatti. Popular leaders have been ignored", says Vaman Acharya, BJP Spokesperson. But despite facing criticism for his choices, the chief minister himself seems to have not got his way. Though he had expressed interest to contest from two seats, Chamundeshwari and Badami, Siddaramaiah has only managed to get a ticket only from the former contituency. But this list also includes several next generation Congressis, drawing the ire of loyalists. Apart from chief minister's doctor son Yatheendra who got a ticket from Varuna, Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy's daughter Sowmya, Law Minister TB Jayachandra's son Santhosh, Mallikarjun Kharge's son Priyank, Dharam Singh's son Ajay, Krishnappa's son Priya Krishna, KH Muniyappa's daughter Roopa and Shamnur Shivashankarappa's son SS Mallikarjun have all received tickets. "When Congress was in trouble in Karnataka Priya Krishna, Priyank Kharge and Ajay Singh contested for the party and won. Therefore they are not successors biologically, but are successors of Congress ideology", says Radhakrishna. The party is yet to name candidates for six more constituencies, among which there is Bengaluru Central's Shantinagar. Congress seems to be rethinking about a ticket for its sitting MLA in the minority-dominated constituency, NA Haris, as his son Nalapad Haris has been embroiled in a pub brawl case and has been behind bars since mid February.

Siddaramaiah struggles to contain dissent in Karnataka Congress after distribution of tickets

Divya Spandana, actor-turned-politician and former MP from Mandya in Karnataka from Congress spoke at length about the challenges facing the Congress Party in her home state Karnataka. The state will go to polls on May 12 and Congress is pitched in a triangular fight with JD-S and resurgent BJP. Divya Spandana is the reason behind the turn-around of Congress fortune on the social media. She said that fake news is a problem but people in-charge of big social media platforms are themselves politically aligned which makes it difficult to contain rough edges of social media.

Q: How serious is the issue of fake news in Karnataka?

A: Fake news is a serious issue and we know how it can elect politicians like Donald Trump and Narendra Modi. We are trying to counter it in Karnataka. BJP does it in every elections. We saw it in Gujarat elections where Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a statement against the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Even as a whisper campaign was launched against Ahmed Patel that he would be made Chief Minister of the state. So, we know how much damage a fake news campaign can do and lot of that is being done in Karnataka also.

Q: Are you aware of the campaign which the Facebook has launched in Karnataka to curb fake news on its site?

A:&nbspIt is a commendable effort but I’m also bit wary as I know that people who head Facebook have political leanings and they are part of the RSS and also worked for the 2014 campaign for the Narendra Modi. I’m not sure as to how credible is this but I followed BOOM in the past and I’m sure that they are doing a quite a good job so it is in right direction but how much credibility Facebook can lend to this is questionable.

Q: What are the challenges before the Congress Party in this election?

A:&nbspWe are talking about development and achievement of the Congress Party in the state but BJP has nothing to talk about as they have nothing to talk about their contribution as a party ruling at the Centre.&nbsp There are no jobs and economy is in the crisis. But what they do in every election is to drag us into fake propaganda, controversies and Hindutva conversation as much as we try to keep away from it. They want to keep us on our feet on these issues and it is a big challenge. They don’t want us to talk about issues as they have no contributions to talk about.

Q: What are your campaign highlights?

A: We will talk about development but you have to see the way people consume news today. Fake news and gossip travels much faster. If I’m talking about development and achievements of the Congress Party and how it has benefitted the people, the traction is much less so we have to find innovative ways to communicate with people as this is the way people consume news today.

Q: How are you tailoring your social media campaign in Karnataka?

A: Karnataka is number one in so many areas ranging from technology to development to women empowerment. So, those will be our talking points. For example schemes like Ksheera Bhagya and Anna Bhagya which have immensely benefited the people.

Q: Ticket distribution has been much of a spoiler as senior leaders of party have revolted and spoken against the Congress High Command?

A: This is how it is going to be in politics. People have their chances in politics and now other people need to be given the chance. So, there will be some kind of discontent and it would especially happen when you are trying to make some sort of a change. It will create friction. I’m not going to make a big deal out of it.

Q: What is your plan to tackle BJP on social media? Like BJP used WhatsApp as a platform tool to campaign and mobilise.

A: What do you do when PM himself spreads fake news.

Q: This is a big charge to make Divya.

A: What do you mean? Didn’t PM make that statement against Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that he has ties with Pakistan? They don’t need WhatsApp and Twitter when they have PM to spread fake news. He made allegations which had no basis at all.

Q: Despite political parties talking about social development, both BJP and Congress are seen to be making rounds of religious institutions?

A: It is because it is an important part of our culture and community so it is important to reach out to them.

&nbsp

Divya Spandana, actor turned politician and former MP from Mandya in Karnataka from Congress spoke at length about the challenges facing the Congress Party in her home state Karnataka

Divya Spandana, actor-turned-politician and former MP from Mandya in Karnataka from Congress spoke at length about the challenges facing the Congress Party in her home state Karnataka. The state will go to polls on May 12 and Congress is pitched in a triangular fight with JD-S and resurgent BJP. Divya Spandana is the reason behind the turn-around of Congress fortune on the social media. She said that fake news is a problem but people in-charge of big social media platforms are themselves politically aligned which makes it difficult to contain rough edges of social media. Q: How serious is the issue of fake news in Karnataka? A: Fake news is a serious issue and we know how it can elect politicians like Donald Trump and Narendra Modi. We are trying to counter it in Karnataka. BJP does it in every elections. We saw it in Gujarat elections where Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a statement against the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Even as a whisper campaign was launched against Ahmed Patel that he would be made Chief Minister of the state. So, we know how much damage a fake news campaign can do and lot of that is being done in Karnataka also. Q: Are you aware of the campaign which the Facebook has launched in Karnataka to curb fake news on its site? A: It is a commendable effort but I’m also bit wary as I know that people who head Facebook have political leanings and they are part of the RSS and also worked for the 2014 campaign for the Narendra Modi. I’m not sure as to how credible is this but I followed BOOM in the past and I’m sure that they are doing a quite a good job so it is in right direction but how much credibility Facebook can lend to this is questionable. Q: What are the challenges before the Congress Party in this election? A: We are talking about development and achievement of the Congress Party in the state but BJP has nothing to talk about as they have nothing to talk about their contribution as a party ruling at the Centre. There are no jobs and economy is in the crisis. But what they do in every election is to drag us into fake propaganda, controversies and Hindutva conversation as much as we try to keep away from it. They want to keep us on our feet on these issues and it is a big challenge. They don’t want us to talk about issues as they have no contributions to talk about. Q: What are your campaign highlights? A: We will talk about development but you have to see the way people consume news today. Fake news and gossip travels much faster. If I’m talking about development and achievements of the Congress Party and how it has benefitted the people, the traction is much less so we have to find innovative ways to communicate with people as this is the way people consume news today. Q: How are you tailoring your social media campaign in Karnataka? A: Karnataka is number one in so many areas ranging from technology to development to women empowerment. So, those will be our talking points. For example schemes like Ksheera Bhagya and Anna Bhagya which have immensely benefited the people. Q: Ticket distribution has been much of a spoiler as senior leaders of party have revolted and spoken against the Congress High Command? A: This is how it is going to be in politics. People have their chances in politics and now other people need to be given the chance. So, there will be some kind of discontent and it would especially happen when you are trying to make some sort of a change. It will create friction. I’m not going to make a big deal out of it. Q: What is your plan to tackle BJP on social media? Like BJP used WhatsApp as a platform tool to campaign and mobilise. A: What do you do when PM himself spreads fake news. Q: This is a big charge to make Divya. A: What do you mean? Didn’t PM make that statement against Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that he has ties with Pakistan? They don’t need WhatsApp and Twitter when they have PM to spread fake news. He made allegations which had no basis at all. Q: Despite political parties talking about social development, both BJP and Congress are seen to be making rounds of religious institutions? A: It is because it is an important part of our culture and community so it is important to reach out to them.

Fake news is a serious issue, can elect politicians like Trump, Modi: Former Congress MP Divya Spandana

Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular) or JD(S) has emerged as the biggest surprise in the run-up to this year's Assembly elections in Karnataka. A party which was out of the political depth for more than a decade is suddenly in news. The reason for this is the support it receives from the Vokkaligas, the traditional supporters of the JD(S) and a dominant caste in the South Karnataka region.

The ruling Congress is also aware of the Vokkaliga consolidation around JD(S). Congress insiders says that the strong backward caste, Dalit and Muslim polarisation, coupled with lack of any outreach towards the community, has led to Vokkaligas to rally around JD(S) in greater gusto. This community till today has given five chief ministers to the state.

The Vokkaligas hold sway in 10 districts of Karnataka like Mandya, Hassan, Mysore, Kolar and Chikamagalur - mostly in southern part of the state.

Congress sources say that in earlier elections, a part of the Vokkaliga community voted for the other parties, but this time the consolidation around JD(S) seems to have grown even more. Even Asadudin Owaisi has declared support for JD(S). He will not be fielding candidates and would campaign for the party if required.

This makes Congress more nervous than the BJP. The BJP's Lingayat-led alliance has traditionally never received a substantial chunk of this vote which dominates the old Mysore region. Vokkaligas are dominant peasantry and form the bedrock of Deve Gowda's vote bank. In this election they seem to be rallying hard around the former Prime Minister because they feel neglected by the Congress.

The BJP on the other hand understands that better performance of JD(S) means weak performance of the Congress in South Karnataka. BJP's strength lies in North Karnataka which is further sub-divided into Bombay Karnataka and Hyderabad Karnataka.

Few months back, Congress president Rahul Gandhi wanted agriculture minister of Karnataka Krishna Byre Gowda - a Vokkaliga - to take over as the chief of party's Karnataka unit. Reliable sources said that Gowda wanted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on the same page as he did not want to be reduced as a symbolic head leading the Congress in the state.

Apparently, the chief minister did not take much interest in the proposal. Many say that lack of outreach is a result of acrimonious parting he had with JD(S) leadership years back.

Today, Siddaramiah is the face of Kannadiga pride and Dalit-Muslim and backward caste consolidation. Congress even has the number advantage over BJP but Vokkaligas still have the potential to derail Congress's comeback campaign by denying it a simple majority. Till polling, the game is on.

While the BJP is banking on its Lingayat support, the rallying of Vokkaligas around JD(S) is making Congress nervous.

Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular) or JD(S) has emerged as the biggest surprise in the run-up to this year's Assembly elections in Karnataka. A party which was out of the political depth for more than a decade is suddenly in news. The reason for this is the support it receives from the Vokkaligas, the traditional supporters of the JD(S) and a dominant caste in the South Karnataka region. The ruling Congress is also aware of the Vokkaliga consolidation around JD(S). Congress insiders says that the strong backward caste, Dalit and Muslim polarisation, coupled with lack of any outreach towards the community, has led to Vokkaligas to rally around JD(S) in greater gusto. This community till today has given five chief ministers to the state. The Vokkaligas hold sway in 10 districts of Karnataka like Mandya, Hassan, Mysore, Kolar and Chikamagalur - mostly in southern part of the state. Congress sources say that in earlier elections, a part of the Vokkaliga community voted for the other parties, but this time the consolidation around JD(S) seems to have grown even more. Even Asadudin Owaisi has declared support for JD(S). He will not be fielding candidates and would campaign for the party if required. This makes Congress more nervous than the BJP. The BJP's Lingayat-led alliance has traditionally never received a substantial chunk of this vote which dominates the old Mysore region. Vokkaligas are dominant peasantry and form the bedrock of Deve Gowda's vote bank. In this election they seem to be rallying hard around the former Prime Minister because they feel neglected by the Congress. The BJP on the other hand understands that better performance of JD(S) means weak performance of the Congress in South Karnataka. BJP's strength lies in North Karnataka which is further sub-divided into Bombay Karnataka and Hyderabad Karnataka. Few months back, Congress president Rahul Gandhi wanted agriculture minister of Karnataka Krishna Byre Gowda - a Vokkaliga - to take over as the chief of party's Karnataka unit. Reliable sources said that Gowda wanted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on the same page as he did not want to be reduced as a symbolic head leading the Congress in the state. Apparently, the chief minister did not take much interest in the proposal. Many say that lack of outreach is a result of acrimonious parting he had with JD(S) leadership years back. Today, Siddaramiah is the face of Kannadiga pride and Dalit-Muslim and backward caste consolidation. Congress even has the number advantage over BJP but Vokkaligas still have the potential to derail Congress's comeback campaign by denying it a simple majority. Till polling, the game is on.

The Vokkaliga fix may complicate Congress campaign in Karnataka

India's IT hub Bengaluru has become infamous for its water problems - be it frothing lakes or the shortage in drinking water. Many experts have predicted doomsday for the city, some even pegging it to be the next Cape Town which is staring at a drought.

But these problems have not cropped up overnight. Many leaders, over successive elections, have promised clean drinking water to the city. Yet, more than 40 per cent population of the IT city has been left to fend for itself when it comes to potable water.

"Forty five per cent of Bangaloreans depend on ground water resources and water from other sources like tankers etc. The tragedy of the city is that it is governed by mafia - water, waste and land mafia. And they are dictating terms. During election time, politicians make promises about water supply from various parts like Western Ghats etc. But the reality is - there is no water at these sources. Even in Western Ghats, last year I noticed decline in water yield," said TV Ramachandra, Professor at prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc).

In 2008, 110 villages were added under the Bengaluru Municipal limits. All these villages were promised Cauvery water connection, but they are still waiting for it 10 years later.

"Water connectivity is very low. There are several apartments in the city's outskirts who do not receive Cauvery water. Most of them either have borewell, or they buy water from tankers which is a mafia in itself," lamented Murali Govindarajulu, who live in one such society.

Whether it is the decades-old frothing lakes, or the drying up groundwater table or the steady rise in temperature, the citizens here have been crying hoarse to successive governments to bring sustainable change.

So how successful has the Siddaramaiah government been in bringing change? Looking at the water scarcity and toxic lakes - not much.

For environmentalists like Kshitij Urs, who has actively campaigned for the city's water bodies, taking the legal route has enabled them capture the government's attention.

"In the past five years, there has been a significant change in the way we've been able to get the government look at the issue. Obviously, we had to force them through legal interventions because they did not bother when people got together and protested. The high court very clearly said that the common water has to be protected and encroachments, for which we had gone to the court, had to be removed," Urs said.

It has certainly not been all rosy for the citizen activists of Bengaluru. In 2014, the government passed the landmark law called the Karnataka Lake Conservation and Development Act which gave substantial powers to the Karnataka Lake Development Authority in the state. But the same government that claimed credit for this progressive law, repealed it just a few days before the election dates were announced this year.

"It was a mischief that the then chief minister had played on Karnataka because he had made it an authority but registered it as a society. And never made it a law. So even when there were encroachments happening, they were not able to do anything. So we got the law passed. That law was indeed an extremely progressive law. Unfortunately, that got reversed, just before the elections got announced," Urs said.

Unfortunately, repealing the law in question was not the only attempt made by the government to make lake encroachments easy. Scientists have also criticised the move to handover all lakes to the Minor Irrigation department, that has no expertise to maintain the fragile and unique ecosystem of each lake. The lack of expertise in looking after the lakes could lead to their eventual death and encroachment.

"Quality of people who are getting elected into the system, that is the root cause of all the problems. The day when bangaloreans assert and start electing the right people, we will regain the glory of Bangalore, and Karnataka. We need to do that," said Professor Ramachandra.

In 2015-16, the government spent Rs 4,259 lakh on lakes, the figure was revised to Rs 8,171 lakh in the following year. In 2017-18, it substantially increased to Rs 22,321 lakh, but the amount was almost halved to Rs 11,322 lakhs in 2018-19 outlay.

Citizens have also been critical of the government for not being able to plug the leak, literally, as nearly 50 per cent of the water pumped to Bengaluru is lost due to leakages. Added to that, rainwater harvesting has not been effectively implemented too.

While precious little has been done to save the lakes despite the NGT and high court orders, the government seems more focused on implementing big-ticket projects, like planning to bring desalinated water all the way from the Arabian Sea, or pumping Bellandur lakes's treated water to dried up lakes in Anekal and Kolar.

Surveys have shows that Bengaluru water problem features right on top of the list for politicians this election season. But with barely any visible progress made when it comes to lake conservation or providing a clean and sustainable source of water to nearly 40 per cent of city's population, it will surely have a bearing on the minds of the voters as they head towards the polling booths on May 12.

In 2008, 110 villages were added under the Bengaluru Municipal limits. All these villages were promised Cauvery water connection, but they are still waiting for it 10 years later.

India's IT hub Bengaluru has become infamous for its water problems - be it frothing lakes or the shortage in drinking water. Many experts have predicted doomsday for the city, some even pegging it to be the next Cape Town which is staring at a drought. But these problems have not cropped up overnight. Many leaders, over successive elections, have promised clean drinking water to the city. Yet, more than 40 per cent population of the IT city has been left to fend for itself when it comes to potable water. "Forty five per cent of Bangaloreans depend on ground water resources and water from other sources like tankers etc. The tragedy of the city is that it is governed by mafia - water, waste and land mafia. And they are dictating terms. During election time, politicians make promises about water supply from various parts like Western Ghats etc. But the reality is - there is no water at these sources. Even in Western Ghats, last year I noticed decline in water yield," said TV Ramachandra, Professor at prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc). In 2008, 110 villages were added under the Bengaluru Municipal limits. All these villages were promised Cauvery water connection, but they are still waiting for it 10 years later. "Water connectivity is very low. There are several apartments in the city's outskirts who do not receive Cauvery water. Most of them either have borewell, or they buy water from tankers which is a mafia in itself," lamented Murali Govindarajulu, who live in one such society. Whether it is the decades-old frothing lakes, or the drying up groundwater table or the steady rise in temperature, the citizens here have been crying hoarse to successive governments to bring sustainable change. So how successful has the Siddaramaiah government been in bringing change? Looking at the water scarcity and toxic lakes - not much. For environmentalists like Kshitij Urs, who has actively campaigned for the city's water bodies, taking the legal route has enabled them capture the government's attention. "In the past five years, there has been a significant change in the way we've been able to get the government look at the issue. Obviously, we had to force them through legal interventions because they did not bother when people got together and protested. The high court very clearly said that the common water has to be protected and encroachments, for which we had gone to the court, had to be removed," Urs said. It has certainly not been all rosy for the citizen activists of Bengaluru. In 2014, the government passed the landmark law called the Karnataka Lake Conservation and Development Act which gave substantial powers to the Karnataka Lake Development Authority in the state. But the same government that claimed credit for this progressive law, repealed it just a few days before the election dates were announced this year. "It was a mischief that the then chief minister had played on Karnataka because he had made it an authority but registered it as a society. And never made it a law. So even when there were encroachments happening, they were not able to do anything. So we got the law passed. That law was indeed an extremely progressive law. Unfortunately, that got reversed, just before the elections got announced," Urs said. Unfortunately, repealing the law in question was not the only attempt made by the government to make lake encroachments easy. Scientists have also criticised the move to handover all lakes to the Minor Irrigation department, that has no expertise to maintain the fragile and unique ecosystem of each lake. The lack of expertise in looking after the lakes could lead to their eventual death and encroachment. "Quality of people who are getting elected into the system, that is the root cause of all the problems. The day when bangaloreans assert and start electing the right people, we will regain the glory of Bangalore, and Karnataka. We need to do that," said Professor Ramachandra. In 2015-16, the government spent Rs 4,259 lakh on lakes, the figure was revised to Rs 8,171 lakh in the following year. In 2017-18, it substantially increased to Rs 22,321 lakh, but the amount was almost halved to Rs 11,322 lakhs in 2018-19 outlay. Citizens have also been critical of the government for not being able to plug the leak, literally, as nearly 50 per cent of the water pumped to Bengaluru is lost due to leakages. Added to that, rainwater harvesting has not been effectively implemented too. While precious little has been done to save the lakes despite the NGT and high court orders, the government seems more focused on implementing big-ticket projects, like planning to bring desalinated water all the way from the Arabian Sea, or pumping Bellandur lakes's treated water to dried up lakes in Anekal and Kolar. Surveys have shows that Bengaluru water problem features right on top of the list for politicians this election season. But with barely any visible progress made when it comes to lake conservation or providing a clean and sustainable source of water to nearly 40 per cent of city's population, it will surely have a bearing on the minds of the voters as they head towards the polling booths on May 12.

Karnataka elections: Bengaluru water scarcity a reality, but not a priority

Karnataka Minister's of State for Agriculture Krishna Byre Gowda spoke exclusively to WION. He said the southern states were discriminated against by the 15th Finance Commission. He added that states like Karnataka are being penalised for controlling their populations.

He also said his state did not receive, despite consecutive droughts, as much financial assistance as BJP-ruled states like Maharashtra.

And he added that for the first time, the ruling party is in a position to break the jinx of no government being given a repeat term in Karnataka. Read his full interview here:&nbsp

&nbsp 
Q: What makes you so confident that you will come back to power?

A: We are the first government in the last several decades which is not facing anti-incumbency. We gave a stable government for 5 years which was missing in Karnataka for a decade and a half. BJP’s tenure saw three CMs whereas we gave a scandal-free government. In the previous regime&nbspmany ministers including the CM had to go to jail. &nbspOn the other hand we gave a solid government.

Q: Are you saying you will buck the trend? No government in the past 30 years has been able to achieve this feat? 
A: We have seen the surveys and CM has travelled through the state. We are getting positive vibes. This is the first time in the last 30 years that a government in Karnataka is not facing incumbency.

Q: Your government’s relationship with the Centre has been pretty acrimonious? The 15th Finance Commission was the point of friction...

A: Our CM took up issues related to the rights of Karnataka. Whether it was the Cauvery water issue, or the state flag issue, or even the allocation of funds. The terms of reference limit the freedom of the Finance Commission to carry out a judicious allocation of resources. For example we are being penalised for controlling population. For this reason, allocation of funds to us is going to shrink.

&nbspQ: Are you saying that the Centre is unfair?

A: Centre will be unfair if they refuse to sit down and talk to the affected states. We are willing to negotiate, that includes the progressive southern states. We are giving them the choice to sort out the issue but if they refuse, then I have no choice but to say that they are being deliberately unfair.

Q: Many would say that this election has boiled down to nationalism vs sub-nationalism?

A: I reject this and object to pundits sitting in Delhi who pass judgement on states which are culturally and linguistically different. People sitting in Delhi have no right to question the attachment we have for the Indian union. Kannadigas are more nationalistic than many others. If we want to be Kannadigas along with being Indians and if it cannot be digested, then it’s a problem with them who think otherwise. The Indian union makes space for all types of identities. The union gives this space. Kannadigas are nationalistic and if some people cannot understand our love for our culture and identity, then it is their problem.

Q: But critics say that issues like language and a separate state flag cropped up right before the election?

A: I will answer this at several levels. The issue of flag is not new to us. It was the previous government which issued a circular that gram panchayats hoist the state flag with the national flag. The courts struck it down on the ground that the flag has no legal sanctity, hence this issue became relevant to us and we are trying to legally solve the issue.

In fact, people in southern states picked up Hindi. Even in Tamil Nadu and Kerala people speak Hindi but when you try to impose it, then there will be a pushback, which happened in the last couple of years.

Q: Are you saying that the pushback is taking place because of a new cultural nationalism?

A: A single identity and uniformity are being thrust upon the country. Perhaps it comes from one region but the fact is that we are diverse. &nbspI’m a Hindu but my celebration of Hindu culture is very different from people in other parts of the country. I come from the Shudra tradition of Hindu society and my forms of worship are different. Not today but in the past, sacrifices were part of Shudra culture in southern India. There is an attempt to impose one identity and one definition of being Indian and for this reason, there is a pushback happening. Allow people to be what they are as long it is legal. Some of&nbspthe efforts are against the spirit of the constitution and this is what is leading to a pushback.

Q: The BJP swept the elections in 2014. Will the Modi effect persist in this election?

A: The Modi effect is on the wane. There is a palpable disenchantment with the leadership of the Prime Minister as he has not been able to keep the promises he made. Youth are beginning to realise that PM has not been able to deliver on employment and price rise. Growth and investment are in question. Smart cities have not come and there is no talk of 15 lakhs. People are seeing the truth behind the jumlas.

Q: You are in charge of agriculture. Congress says that allocation in this sector by the Centre is not enough. Why? 
A: I will give you numbers. We were hit with drought for two consecutive years and we were given 3,000 crores opposed to Maharashtra which got 8,000 crores. Is it fair? It was the worst-ever drought. We were struggling to cope with the drought and the Centre was playing politics. Electorate is observing this keenly.

Q: Why was the decision on Lingayats taken before the elections? 
A: It was an issue which was being raised for past several years. We did not create it. It is an old issue which the community had been raising for many years. Lingayat community invited the CM two years ago and asked for separate religious status. CM only responded to the call. The issue came up two years ago. We could not take a view overnight. It was taken to a logical end after due consultations and the report submitted to the government. We did not raise this issue nor took any decision immediately

Q: Can Deve Gowda’s party be a spoiler? 
A: Karnataka has experimented with coalitions with disastrous results and I don’t think the electorate will go for it again.

Q: Is there a Vokaligga consolidation happening? 
A: Vokaliggas are there but there are other communities as well. No one community can decide the fate of the elections and Kannadigas know that a coalition government can take the state several years behind. I’m confident that we will get a simple majority.&nbsp

Karnataka Minister's of State for Agriculture Krishna Byre Gowda said the Modi effect was on the wane and that a pushback was happening because a single Indian identity was being thrust on people

Karnataka Minister's of State for Agriculture Krishna Byre Gowda spoke exclusively to WION. He said the southern states were discriminated against by the 15th Finance Commission. He added that states like Karnataka are being penalised for controlling their populations. He also said his state did not receive, despite consecutive droughts, as much financial assistance as BJP-ruled states like Maharashtra. And he added that for the first time, the ruling party is in a position to break the jinx of no government being given a repeat term in Karnataka. Read his full interview here: Q: What makes you so confident that you will come back to power? A: We are the first government in the last several decades which is not facing anti-incumbency. We gave a stable government for 5 years which was missing in Karnataka for a decade and a half. BJP’s tenure saw three CMs whereas we gave a scandal-free government. In the previous regime&nbspmany ministers including the CM had to go to jail. &nbspOn the other hand we gave a solid government. Q: Are you saying you will buck the trend? No government in the past 30 years has been able to achieve this feat? A: We have seen the surveys and CM has travelled through the state. We are getting positive vibes. This is the first time in the last 30 years that a government in Karnataka is not facing incumbency. Q: Your government’s relationship with the Centre has been pretty acrimonious? The 15th Finance Commission was the point of friction... A: Our CM took up issues related to the rights of Karnataka. Whether it was the Cauvery water issue, or the state flag issue, or even the allocation of funds. The terms of reference limit the freedom of the Finance Commission to carry out a judicious allocation of resources. For example we are being penalised for controlling population. For this reason, allocation of funds to us is going to shrink. &nbspQ: Are you saying that the Centre is unfair? A: Centre will be unfair if they refuse to sit down and talk to the affected states. We are willing to negotiate, that includes the progressive southern states. We are giving them the choice to sort out the issue but if they refuse, then I have no choice but to say that they are being deliberately unfair. Q: Many would say that this election has boiled down to nationalism vs sub-nationalism? A: I reject this and object to pundits sitting in Delhi who pass judgement on states which are culturally and linguistically different. People sitting in Delhi have no right to question the attachment we have for the Indian union. Kannadigas are more nationalistic than many others. If we want to be Kannadigas along with being Indians and if it cannot be digested, then it’s a problem with them who think otherwise. The Indian union makes space for all types of identities. The union gives this space. Kannadigas are nationalistic and if some people cannot understand our love for our culture and identity, then it is their problem. Q: But critics say that issues like language and a separate state flag cropped up right before the election? A: I will answer this at several levels. The issue of flag is not new to us. It was the previous government which issued a circular that gram panchayats hoist the state flag with the national flag. The courts struck it down on the ground that the flag has no legal sanctity, hence this issue became relevant to us and we are trying to legally solve the issue. In fact, people in southern states picked up Hindi. Even in Tamil Nadu and Kerala people speak Hindi but when you try to impose it, then there will be a pushback, which happened in the last couple of years. Q: Are you saying that the pushback is taking place because of a new cultural nationalism? A: A single identity and uniformity are being thrust upon the country. Perhaps it comes from one region but the fact is that we are diverse. &nbspI’m a Hindu but my celebration of Hindu culture is very different from people in other parts of the country. I come from the Shudra tradition of Hindu society and my forms of worship are different. Not today but in the past, sacrifices were part of Shudra culture in southern India. There is an attempt to impose one identity and one definition of being Indian and for this reason, there is a pushback happening. Allow people to be what they are as long it is legal. Some of&nbspthe efforts are against the spirit of the constitution and this is what is leading to a pushback. Q: The BJP swept the elections in 2014. Will the Modi effect persist in this election? A: The Modi effect is on the wane. There is a palpable disenchantment with the leadership of the Prime Minister as he has not been able to keep the promises he made. Youth are beginning to realise that PM has not been able to deliver on employment and price rise. Growth and investment are in question. Smart cities have not come and there is no talk of 15 lakhs. People are seeing the truth behind the jumlas. Q: You are in charge of agriculture. Congress says that allocation in this sector by the Centre is not enough. Why? A: I will give you numbers. We were hit with drought for two consecutive years and we were given 3,000 crores opposed to Maharashtra which got 8,000 crores. Is it fair? It was the worst-ever drought. We were struggling to cope with the drought and the Centre was playing politics. Electorate is observing this keenly. Q: Why was the decision on Lingayats taken before the elections? A: It was an issue which was being raised for past several years. We did not create it. It is an old issue which the community had been raising for many years. Lingayat community invited the CM two years ago and asked for separate religious status. CM only responded to the call. The issue came up two years ago. We could not take a view overnight. It was taken to a logical end after due consultations and the report submitted to the government. We did not raise this issue nor took any decision immediately Q: Can Deve Gowda’s party be a spoiler? A: Karnataka has experimented with coalitions with disastrous results and I don’t think the electorate will go for it again. Q: Is there a Vokaligga consolidation happening? A: Vokaliggas are there but there are other communities as well. No one community can decide the fate of the elections and Kannadigas know that a coalition government can take the state several years behind. I’m confident that we will get a simple majority.

Karnataka MoS to WION: Ruling party not facing anti-incumbency for first time in 30 years

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today asserted that the mood in Karnataka was in favour of his party and it would win the May 12 polls, as he concluded his six rounds of "Yatra" in the run-up to the elections.

Addressing a public rally here to mark the culmination of his "Janarshivad Yatra" covering all regions of the state, Rahul accused the Narendra Modi government of discriminating against the Congress government in Karnataka.

"Karnataka's mood is in favour of the Congress party and we will the election," Gandhi said, winding up the last lap of his "yatra", which he devoted to mainly attack the Modi government.

The visit also saw Gandhi visit temples and other religious places and interact with Hindu seers, besides holding roadshows and mingling with crowds.

"Wherever PM Modi goes he speaks his maan ki baat. I would like to tell you that the Congress party will listen to maan ki baat and on the basis of what is in your mind we will run the government."

"We will work towards progress by taking everyone together. It will be the government of everyone, of every religion, caste and language," he told the gathering at the sprawling Palace Grounds.

Gandhi said the Karnataka elections was a "fight between two ideologies."

"On one side Congress that like Bengaluru works for joining everyone, spreads brotherhood and love. On the other side BJP, RSS and Nagpur's ideology. It's the ideology of spreading anger, hate and dividing."

He also attacked BJP president Amit Shah for his remarks equating opposition parties with animals.

"I want to tell you from this stage that no Congress leader can ever make such statement."

At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Thursday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats', who are seeking to unite despite their inherent differences to take on BJP in next year's Lok Sabha polls.

Shah later said what he meant was political parties having no ideological similarities were coming together out of fear of Modi.

Gandhi said "when Modi speaks, he should from the stage speak about Nirav Modi, Rafale aircraft, Amit Shah's son, Gujarat petroleum scam and Yeddyurappa."

At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Thursday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats'

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today asserted that the mood in Karnataka was in favour of his party and it would win the May 12 polls, as he concluded his six rounds of "Yatra" in the run-up to the elections. Addressing a public rally here to mark the culmination of his "Janarshivad Yatra" covering all regions of the state, Rahul accused the Narendra Modi government of discriminating against the Congress government in Karnataka. "Karnataka's mood is in favour of the Congress party and we will the election," Gandhi said, winding up the last lap of his "yatra", which he devoted to mainly attack the Modi government. The visit also saw Gandhi visit temples and other religious places and interact with Hindu seers, besides holding roadshows and mingling with crowds. "Wherever PM Modi goes he speaks his maan ki baat. I would like to tell you that the Congress party will listen to maan ki baat and on the basis of what is in your mind we will run the government." "We will work towards progress by taking everyone together. It will be the government of everyone, of every religion, caste and language," he told the gathering at the sprawling Palace Grounds. Gandhi said the Karnataka elections was a "fight between two ideologies." "On one side Congress that like Bengaluru works for joining everyone, spreads brotherhood and love. On the other side BJP, RSS and Nagpur's ideology. It's the ideology of spreading anger, hate and dividing." He also attacked BJP president Amit Shah for his remarks equating opposition parties with animals. "I want to tell you from this stage that no Congress leader can ever make such statement." At a rally in Mumbai to mark BJP's foundation day on Thursday, Shah had equated opposition parties to 'snakes' and mongoose' and 'dogs' and 'cats', who are seeking to unite despite their inherent differences to take on BJP in next year's Lok Sabha polls. Shah later said what he meant was political parties having no ideological similarities were coming together out of fear of Modi. Gandhi said "when Modi speaks, he should from the stage speak about Nirav Modi, Rafale aircraft, Amit Shah's son, Gujarat petroleum scam and Yeddyurappa."

Karnataka elections fight between two ideologies: Rahul Gandhi

The Bhartiya Janata Party has announced the first list of candidates for Karnataka elections.

The list includes the 72 candidates.

Chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa will be contesting from the Shikaripura constituency.

Elections in Karnataka will be held on May 12 in&nbspa single phase.

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BJP announces the first list of 72 candidates for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a>. <a href="https://t.co/V19Gro7wzT">pic.twitter.com/V19Gro7wzT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983035569340067842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

Chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa will be contesting from the Shikaripura constituency

The Bhartiya Janata Party has announced the first list of candidates for Karnataka elections. The list includes the 72 candidates. Chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa will be contesting from the Shikaripura constituency. Elections in Karnataka will be held on May 12 in&nbspa single phase. BJP announces the first list of 72 candidates for #KarnatakaElections2018. pic.twitter.com/V19Gro7wzT — ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2018 ×

BJP announces first list of candidates for Karnataka elections

Actor turned politician Kamal Haasan urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to set up Cauvery Management Board (CMB) in order to find a solution to the Cauvery water dispute on Thursday.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters at the party headquarters, Makkal Needhi Maiam founder said that prime minister has the authority to set up the CMB and he should do so.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MakkalNeedhiMaiam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MakkalNeedhiMaiam</a> President <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ikamalhaasan</a>'s Press Meet <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nammavar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nammavar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MNM?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MNM</a> <a href="https://t.co/gjF4HrXwbE">https://t.co/gjF4HrXwbE</a>
— Makkal Needhi Maiam | மக்கள் நீதி மய்யம் (@maiamofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/maiamofficial/status/979298537409097728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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When asked whether the Centre is delaying setting up the CMB because of the impending Karnataka elections, Kamal said that is ''pedestrian perception''.&nbsp;

The actor also said that he would launch a state-wide demonstration if the Central government failed to act on the issue.&nbsp;

Earlier the actor-turned-politician expressed shock at the Supreme Court's verdict on Cauvery River water dispute that reduced Tamil Nadu's share in the disputed waters.&nbsp;

"I am also shocked at the reduction in the supply of water. I have to get more details about the actual judgment but I think the Supreme Court firmly said that water cannot be owned by any state. That's a consoling factor," Haasan then said at a press conference here.&nbsp;

In its verdict on the dispute, the Supreme Court allotted an additional 14.75 TMC of river water to the state of Karnataka and reduced Tamil Nadu's share from 192 TMC to 177.25 TMC.&nbsp;

The parties to the dispute were the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, who challenged the 2007 order of the Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal (CWDT) on the sharing of Cauvery, the Ganga of southern India.&nbsp;

Superstar Rajinikanth also batted for setting up of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB), saying it was the "only acceptable just solution for us" in the inter-state river water dispute involving Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

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காவிரி விஷயத்தில் உச்ச நீதிமன்ற தீர்ப்பின்படி காவிரி மேலாண்மை வாரியம் அமைப்பது ஒன்று மட்டுமே நாம் ஏற்றுக்கொள்ளக்கூடிய நியாயமான தீர்வாக இருக்க முடியும். 
I sincerely hope justice will prevail.
— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajinikanth/status/979261791384387584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"On the Cauvery issue setting up of CMB will be the only acceptable just solution for us. I sincerely hope justice will prevail," the actor tweeted earlier today.

When asked whether the Centre is delaying setting up the CMB because of the impending Karnataka elections, Kamal said that is ''pedestrian perception''.

Actor turned politician Kamal Haasan urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to set up Cauvery Management Board (CMB) in order to find a solution to the Cauvery water dispute on Thursday. Speaking to reporters at the party headquarters, Makkal Needhi Maiam founder said that prime minister has the authority to set up the CMB and he should do so. #MakkalNeedhiMaiam President @ikamalhaasan's Press Meet #Nammavar #MNM https://t.co/gjF4HrXwbE — Makkal Needhi Maiam | மக்கள் நீதி மய்யம் (@maiamofficial) March 29, 2018 × When asked whether the Centre is delaying setting up the CMB because of the impending Karnataka elections, Kamal said that is ''pedestrian perception''. The actor also said that he would launch a state-wide demonstration if the Central government failed to act on the issue. Earlier the actor-turned-politician expressed shock at the Supreme Court's verdict on Cauvery River water dispute that reduced Tamil Nadu's share in the disputed waters. "I am also shocked at the reduction in the supply of water. I have to get more details about the actual judgment but I think the Supreme Court firmly said that water cannot be owned by any state. That's a consoling factor," Haasan then said at a press conference here. In its verdict on the dispute, the Supreme Court allotted an additional 14.75 TMC of river water to the state of Karnataka and reduced Tamil Nadu's share from 192 TMC to 177.25 TMC. The parties to the dispute were the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, who challenged the 2007 order of the Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal (CWDT) on the sharing of Cauvery, the Ganga of southern India. Superstar Rajinikanth also batted for setting up of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB), saying it was the "only acceptable just solution for us" in the inter-state river water dispute involving Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. காவிரி விஷயத்தில் உச்ச நீதிமன்ற தீர்ப்பின்படி காவிரி மேலாண்மை வாரியம் அமைப்பது ஒன்று மட்டுமே நாம் ஏற்றுக்கொள்ளக்கூடிய நியாயமான தீர்வாக இருக்க முடியும். I sincerely hope justice will prevail. — Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) March 29, 2018 × "On the Cauvery issue setting up of CMB will be the only acceptable just solution for us. I sincerely hope justice will prevail," the actor tweeted earlier today.

Kamal Haasan urges Centre to set up Cauvery Management Board

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday announced the Assembly election dates for Karnataka.

Elections in Karnataka will be held on May 12 in&nbsp;single phase.

Addressing the media in New Delhi, Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat said that the Model Code of Conduct has kicked in from today (March 26).

"Model Code of Conduct for the elections will come into effect immediately. The eco-friendly material should be used for all propaganda exercise. Use of loudspeakers will be regulated so that people can sleep at night. Loudspeakers won't be allowed from 10 pm to 6 am," said CEC Om Prakash Rawat.

Rawat further said that counting of votes and results for the state will be declared on May 15.

The election will be held to elect members of the 224 constituencies in the Congress-ruled state. Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat said that the total number of electorate in Karnataka is 4.96 crores.

"Total number of polling stations in the state is 56,696 which is an increase of 9 percent from last Assembly elections," Rawat said.

In February, the chief electoral officer had announced that nearly 60 lakh people have enrolled as new voters across Karnataka ahead of the 15th Assembly elections, due in early May.

"The number of new voters across the state has increased by 60 lakh, taking the total number of the electorate to 4.96 crore as per the tentative electoral rolls as against 4.36 crore voters in 2013 Assembly elections," state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sanjiv Kumar said.

According to the tentative electoral rolls, the number of male voters is 2.51 crore and female voters 2.44 crore. The tenure of Karnataka Assembly ends in May 2018.

While the ruling Congress Party is trying to retain power in Karnataka, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leaving no stone unturned to seize the southern state.

In the run-up to the polls, extensive campaigning has been witnessed by both aforementioned parties, as both Congress and BJP frontrunners have been making numerous visits to the state to garner support for their respective parties.

The Karnataka assembly tenure ends May 2018

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday announced the Assembly election dates for Karnataka. Elections in Karnataka will be held on May 12 in single phase. Addressing the media in New Delhi, Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat said that the Model Code of Conduct has kicked in from today (March 26). "Model Code of Conduct for the elections will come into effect immediately. The eco-friendly material should be used for all propaganda exercise. Use of loudspeakers will be regulated so that people can sleep at night. Loudspeakers won't be allowed from 10 pm to 6 am," said CEC Om Prakash Rawat. Rawat further said that counting of votes and results for the state will be declared on May 15. The election will be held to elect members of the 224 constituencies in the Congress-ruled state. Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat said that the total number of electorate in Karnataka is 4.96 crores. "Total number of polling stations in the state is 56,696 which is an increase of 9 percent from last Assembly elections," Rawat said. In February, the chief electoral officer had announced that nearly 60 lakh people have enrolled as new voters across Karnataka ahead of the 15th Assembly elections, due in early May. "The number of new voters across the state has increased by 60 lakh, taking the total number of the electorate to 4.96 crore as per the tentative electoral rolls as against 4.36 crore voters in 2013 Assembly elections," state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sanjiv Kumar said. According to the tentative electoral rolls, the number of male voters is 2.51 crore and female voters 2.44 crore. The tenure of Karnataka Assembly ends in May 2018. While the ruling Congress Party is trying to retain power in Karnataka, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leaving no stone unturned to seize the southern state. In the run-up to the polls, extensive campaigning has been witnessed by both aforementioned parties, as both Congress and BJP frontrunners have been making numerous visits to the state to garner support for their respective parties.

Karnataka Assembly elections to be held on May 12, results on May 15

Congress president Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP government for &quot;attacking&quot;&nbsp;the constitution&nbsp;while he was addressing a rally in Karnataka on Saturday.

As part of the fourth leg of his campaign tour in Karnataka, the Gandhi scion visited Chamundheshwari temple in Mysuru.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-trolled-for-not-knowing-about-ncc-36915">Rahul Gandhi trolled for not knowing about NCC</a>

Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally after his temple visit during which he accused the BJP of snatching away people&#39;s money through note ban and GST, &nbsp;adding that &quot;there is new fashion now, they (BJP) are attacking the constitution.&quot; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
The news agency, PTI further quoted Rahul Gandhi saying that &quot;we will not allow the BJP to change the Constitution. How much ever BJP forces its way to change the Constitution, we will make sure that the Congress will protect the work of Ambedkarji.&quot;

During the day Rahul Gandhi also held a roadshow and inaugurated the Indira Canteen in Kollegala of Chamarajnagar district.&nbsp;

Earlier he visited the northern, coastal and Malnad regions of the state. Rahul Gandhi is currently on a two-day visit to Mandya, Mysuru and Chamarajnagar district.

Ahead of the election in the 224-member assembly in Karnataka, the state has witnessed frequent visits by national leaders, from both the Congress and the BJP. While the ruling Congress is trying to retain power in Karnataka, the BJP is eyeing to seize the southern state from it.

(With inputs from ANI)

Congress president Rahul Gandhi slammed BJP government for 'attacking' the constitution while he was addressing a rally in Karnataka on Saturday

Congress president Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP government for "attacking" the constitution while he was addressing a rally in Karnataka on Saturday. As part of the fourth leg of his campaign tour in Karnataka, the Gandhi scion visited Chamundheshwari temple in Mysuru. Also read: Rahul Gandhi trolled for not knowing about NCC Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally after his temple visit during which he accused the BJP of snatching away people's money through note ban and GST, adding that "there is new fashion now, they (BJP) are attacking the constitution." The news agency, PTI further quoted Rahul Gandhi saying that "we will not allow the BJP to change the Constitution. How much ever BJP forces its way to change the Constitution, we will make sure that the Congress will protect the work of Ambedkarji." During the day Rahul Gandhi also held a roadshow and inaugurated the Indira Canteen in Kollegala of Chamarajnagar district. Earlier he visited the northern, coastal and Malnad regions of the state. Rahul Gandhi is currently on a two-day visit to Mandya, Mysuru and Chamarajnagar district. Ahead of the election in the 224-member assembly in Karnataka, the state has witnessed frequent visits by national leaders, from both the Congress and the BJP. While the ruling Congress is trying to retain power in Karnataka, the BJP is eyeing to seize the southern state from it. (With inputs from ANI)

Karnataka: BJP 'attacking' the constitution says Rahul Gandhi

The Lingayat movement for separate religion status is likely to become one of the deciding factors in the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections.&nbsp;

With Assembly elections just a few months away, the demand for separate religious status for the Lingayats, a community that claims a historicity that separates them from the broad fabric of Hinduism, has started gaining ground in Karnataka again.&nbsp;

The community is believed to be the single largest in Karnataka accounting for around 18% of the state&rsquo;s population.&nbsp;

BJP&#39;s CM candidate BS Yeddyurappa is the tallest leader for the Lingayat community, which is the largest vote bank in the state.

In 2013, Lingayat voters didn&#39;t vote for BJP as the party removed BS Yeddyurappa from CM post. As a result, Congress made a &nbsp;comeback.&nbsp;

Now, if Congress becomes successful in getting a good share of Lingayat votes, it will prove to be troublesome for BJP.

Who are the Lingayats?

The tradition of Lingayatism is known to have been founded by social reformer and philosopher Basavanna in 12th century Karnataka.&nbsp;

Followers of the sect continue to revere him as the founder and prime philosopher of their religion.

The community instead of temple worship and casteism were taught to worship Shiva with great rigour and gave up the ritualistic brahmin practices.&nbsp;

The Lingayats are what political scientists call a &lsquo;caste-sect&rsquo;, and fall within the OBC category in the state.

The community is believed to be the single largest in Karnataka accounting for around 18% of the state’s population

The Lingayat movement for separate religion status is likely to become one of the deciding factors in the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections. With Assembly elections just a few months away, the demand for separate religious status for the Lingayats, a community that claims a historicity that separates them from the broad fabric of Hinduism, has started gaining ground in Karnataka again. The community is believed to be the single largest in Karnataka accounting for around 18% of the state’s population. BJP's CM candidate BS Yeddyurappa is the tallest leader for the Lingayat community, which is the largest vote bank in the state. In 2013, Lingayat voters didn't vote for BJP as the party removed BS Yeddyurappa from CM post. As a result, Congress made a comeback. Now, if Congress becomes successful in getting a good share of Lingayat votes, it will prove to be troublesome for BJP. Who are the Lingayats? The tradition of Lingayatism is known to have been founded by social reformer and philosopher Basavanna in 12th century Karnataka. Followers of the sect continue to revere him as the founder and prime philosopher of their religion. The community instead of temple worship and casteism were taught to worship Shiva with great rigour and gave up the ritualistic brahmin practices. The Lingayats are what political scientists call a ‘caste-sect’, and fall within the OBC category in the state.

Karnataka elections: Demand for Lingayat as separate religion creates trouble for BJP

Wionews.com had reported Monday how Rahul Gandhi, as Congress President, would <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-unlikely-to-continue-with-position-of-political-secretary-in-congress-32637" target="_blank">run a more centralised office</a> than his mother and predecessor Sonia Gandhi. Sources had told wionews.com that Rahul would discontinue the office of a Congress political secretary.

The sources said Rahul&#39;s office has been modelled on the &quot;hub-and-spoke&quot;&nbsp;model, under which small &quot;hubs&quot; report directly to the central hub rather than to senior functionaries, who would then report to the Congress President.

This hub and spoke model, wionews.com&nbsp;reported, would keep decision-making in Rahul&#39;s purview.

Wionews.com added that strict instructions had been issued to the people working in Rahul&#39;s office to not give interviews to the media.&nbsp;

Modi of course has not addressed a press conference in the close to four years that he has been in power, and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/world-exclusive-sudhir-chaudhary-interviews-indian-pm-narendra-modi-7884" target="_blank">has given very few interviews</a>. The prime minister prefers to talk to the people of India via his monthly Mann ki Baat radio address and social media.&nbsp;

Interestingly, when Modi first came to power, news reports had talked of how all power was being centralised in the Prime Minister&#39;s Office. Some reports went so far as to say the centralisation of power was slowing down decision-making -- since all decisions were made in the PMO -- under Modi.&nbsp;

Rahul -- who visited a large number of temples during the Gujarat elections and continues to do while campaigning in Karnataka -- has already been accused of practising a &quot;soft&quot; Hindutva. In Gujarat, for example, while he tried to cobble together a disparate group&nbsp;-- the Patels, the Dalits -- under his umbrella, he said nothing of the Muslims.&nbsp;

The Congress reply to the charge was that it did not wish to polarise the Hindu vote bank (against it) before the election.&nbsp;

Rahul finally broke his silence on his temple visits on Monday. &quot;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-defends-temple-run-says-he-will-continue-it-32644" target="_blank">I like going to temples</a>, wherever I get a religious&nbsp;place I go there. I feel good and feel happy, and I will&nbsp;continue (to go),&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Rahul of course is allowed to visit whichever temple he might wish to (with or without a tilak; see photo above) but the embrace of places of worship and soldiers tends to be the forte of right-wing governments.&nbsp;

Even with soldiers, Rahul has begun to hit strident notes.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, after Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said Pakistan &quot;will pay&quot; for the attack on the Sunjuwan army camp in Jammu -- in which five soldiers and the father of a soldier were killed -- Rahul tweeted:

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1. PDP says &ldquo;talks&rdquo; with Pakistan. 
 
2. BJP Defence Minister says &quot;Pakistan will pay the price&quot;. 
 
While our soldiers pay with their blood for BJP/ PDP&rsquo;s opportunistic alliance and non-existent Kashmir policy; Modi Ji dithers.
&mdash; Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfRG/status/963365828681924608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Again on Tuesday, he took a Modi barb aimed at the Nehru-Gandhi family and tried to turn it against the prime minister himself. Modi had recently said in Parliament that nothing had been done in the country for 70 years (the majority of which had seen Congress governments in power).&nbsp;

While campaigning in Karnataka, Rahul said:&nbsp;

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When Modi Ji says that nothing was done in this country for last 70 years, he is disrespecting your parents, ancestors and the farmers. A country is not run by a single person: Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Bidar, Karnataka <a href="https://t.co/JBYRhtX11x">pic.twitter.com/JBYRhtX11x</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/963376056374841344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The spin by Rahul was reminiscent of the prime minister&#39;s own spinning of Mani Shankar&#39;s Aiyar&#39;s comment about him.

Aiyar had called Modi a &quot;neech&quot; person. Modi took the comment to the voters of Gujarat, saying Aiyar had called him a low-caste, and that he had insulted not only him but also the people of Gujarat.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Sources say Rahul, as Congress President, will run a 'centralised' office, like Modi does. Instructions have also been given to the people working for Rahul to not talk to the media

Wionews.com had reported Monday how Rahul Gandhi, as Congress President, would run a more centralised office than his mother and predecessor Sonia Gandhi. Sources had told wionews.com that Rahul would discontinue the office of a Congress political secretary. The sources said Rahul's office has been modelled on the "hub-and-spoke" model, under which small "hubs" report directly to the central hub rather than to senior functionaries, who would then report to the Congress President. This hub and spoke model, wionews.com reported, would keep decision-making in Rahul's purview. Wionews.com added that strict instructions had been issued to the people working in Rahul's office to not give interviews to the media. Modi of course has not addressed a press conference in the close to four years that he has been in power, and has given very few interviews. The prime minister prefers to talk to the people of India via his monthly Mann ki Baat radio address and social media. Interestingly, when Modi first came to power, news reports had talked of how all power was being centralised in the Prime Minister's Office. Some reports went so far as to say the centralisation of power was slowing down decision-making -- since all decisions were made in the PMO -- under Modi. Rahul -- who visited a large number of temples during the Gujarat elections and continues to do while campaigning in Karnataka -- has already been accused of practising a "soft" Hindutva. In Gujarat, for example, while he tried to cobble together a disparate group -- the Patels, the Dalits -- under his umbrella, he said nothing of the Muslims. The Congress reply to the charge was that it did not wish to polarise the Hindu vote bank (against it) before the election. Rahul finally broke his silence on his temple visits on Monday. "I like going to temples, wherever I get a religious place I go there. I feel good and feel happy, and I will continue (to go)," he said. Rahul of course is allowed to visit whichever temple he might wish to (with or without a tilak; see photo above) but the embrace of places of worship and soldiers tends to be the forte of right-wing governments. Even with soldiers, Rahul has begun to hit strident notes. On Tuesday, after Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said Pakistan "will pay" for the attack on the Sunjuwan army camp in Jammu -- in which five soldiers and the father of a soldier were killed -- Rahul tweeted: 1. PDP says “talks” with Pakistan. 2. BJP Defence Minister says "Pakistan will pay the price". While our soldiers pay with their blood for BJP/ PDP’s opportunistic alliance and non-existent Kashmir policy; Modi Ji dithers. — Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 13, 2018 × Again on Tuesday, he took a Modi barb aimed at the Nehru-Gandhi family and tried to turn it against the prime minister himself. Modi had recently said in Parliament that nothing had been done in the country for 70 years (the majority of which had seen Congress governments in power). While campaigning in Karnataka, Rahul said: When Modi Ji says that nothing was done in this country for last 70 years, he is disrespecting your parents, ancestors and the farmers. A country is not run by a single person: Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Bidar, Karnataka pic.twitter.com/JBYRhtX11x — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2018 × The spin by Rahul was reminiscent of the prime minister's own spinning of Mani Shankar's Aiyar's comment about him. Aiyar had called Modi a "neech" person. Modi took the comment to the voters of Gujarat, saying Aiyar had called him a low-caste, and that he had insulted not only him but also the people of Gujarat.

Rahul Gandhi seems to be copying from Modi's playbook. Here's how

Ahead of Karnataka assembly polls, the two major parties BJP and Congress have initiated efforts for&nbsp;developing a stronghold in the poll-bound state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While addressing a rally in Karnataka, BJP chief Amit Shah has blamed the Karnataka government for doing vote bank politics. He also said that the state government is an anti-Hindu government.&nbsp;

He said &quot; This government (of Karnataka) is doing vote bank politics, it is an anti-Hindu government. They have withdrawn all cases against the Social Democratic Party of India(SDPI), which is an anti-India organisation.&quot;

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This govt (of Karnataka) is doing vote bank politics, it is an anti-Hindu govt. They have withdrawn all cases against SDPI, which is an anti-India organisation: Amit Shah in Chitradurga <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/U5vzuJV0NB">pic.twitter.com/U5vzuJV0NB</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/951007834828816384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-yogi-adityanaths-twitter-spat-continues-28949" target="_blank">Siddaramaiah-Yogi Adityanath&#39;s Twitter spat continues</a>

Targetting Karnataka chief minister&nbsp;Siddaramaiah, he asked: &quot; Where did all the money given by centre go?&quot; He also asked the people if the money allocated for the state by the centre reach them.&nbsp;

He said &quot; Look for a Congressman in your village, 5 years back what used to be a thatched house will now be a huge 4-storey house with an expensive car parked in front.&nbsp;

Answering Siddaramaia&#39;s question on centre&#39;s contribution for Karnataka, Shah said that in 13th Finance Commission under UPA Rs 88,583 crore was allocated while under the present NDA government in 14th Finance&nbsp;Commission Karnataka has received Rs 2,19,000 crore.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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But where did all the money given by the centre go? Did it reach your village? Look for a Congressman in your village, 5 years back what used to be a thatched house will now be a huge 4 storey house with an expensive car parked in front: Amit Shah in Chitradurga <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/4TarR9NYq5">pic.twitter.com/4TarR9NYq5</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/951004907070373889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Recently Siddaramaiah&#39;s Uttar Pradesh counterpart Yogi Adityanath also accused him of intermixing religion and politics. While addressing a BJP rally in Bengaluru, He questioned Siddaramaiah on why he was &quot;endorsing beef eaters&quot; if he was a Hindu.

To which the Karnataka chief minister tweeted &quot;Many in Hindu religion eat beef and I will eat if I want to eat beef, but I don&#39;t like beef that&#39;s why I don&#39;t eat it. Who is he to ask?&quot;&nbsp;

Siddaramaiah has time and again been favouring sub-nationalism&nbsp;by demanding&nbsp;a separate state flag for Karnataka and a strong protest against the imposition of Hindi.&nbsp;

The legislative assembly in the state is scheduled for&nbsp;April- May 2018 to elect members of the 224 constituencies in the state.

While addressing a rally in Karnataka, BJP chief Amit Shah has blamed the Karnataka government for doing vote bank politics

Ahead of Karnataka assembly polls, the two major parties BJP and Congress have initiated efforts for developing a stronghold in the poll-bound state. While addressing a rally in Karnataka, BJP chief Amit Shah has blamed the Karnataka government for doing vote bank politics. He also said that the state government is an anti-Hindu government. He said " This government (of Karnataka) is doing vote bank politics, it is an anti-Hindu government. They have withdrawn all cases against the Social Democratic Party of India(SDPI), which is an anti-India organisation." This govt (of Karnataka) is doing vote bank politics, it is an anti-Hindu govt. They have withdrawn all cases against SDPI, which is an anti-India organisation: Amit Shah in Chitradurga #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/U5vzuJV0NB — ANI (@ANI) January 10, 2018 × Also read: Siddaramaiah-Yogi Adityanath's Twitter spat continues Targetting Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah, he asked: " Where did all the money given by centre go?" He also asked the people if the money allocated for the state by the centre reach them. He said " Look for a Congressman in your village, 5 years back what used to be a thatched house will now be a huge 4-storey house with an expensive car parked in front. Answering Siddaramaia's question on centre's contribution for Karnataka, Shah said that in 13th Finance Commission under UPA Rs 88,583 crore was allocated while under the present NDA government in 14th Finance Commission Karnataka has received Rs 2,19,000 crore. But where did all the money given by the centre go? Did it reach your village? Look for a Congressman in your village, 5 years back what used to be a thatched house will now be a huge 4 storey house with an expensive car parked in front: Amit Shah in Chitradurga #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/4TarR9NYq5 — ANI (@ANI) January 10, 2018 × Recently Siddaramaiah's Uttar Pradesh counterpart Yogi Adityanath also accused him of intermixing religion and politics. While addressing a BJP rally in Bengaluru, He questioned Siddaramaiah on why he was "endorsing beef eaters" if he was a Hindu. To which the Karnataka chief minister tweeted "Many in Hindu religion eat beef and I will eat if I want to eat beef, but I don't like beef that's why I don't eat it. Who is he to ask?" Siddaramaiah has time and again been favouring sub-nationalism by demanding a separate state flag for Karnataka and a strong protest against the imposition of Hindi. The legislative assembly in the state is scheduled for April- May 2018 to elect members of the 224 constituencies in the state.

Karnataka government is anti-Hindu: Amit Shah

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