Last-Ditch Efforts in Karnataka: Parties Push Hard in High-Stakes By-Polls

With by-polls approaching in Karnataka, Congress, BJP, and JD(S) are fervently campaigning for key assembly seats. Prominent figures, including former PM H D Deve Gowda, are rallying support, highlighting both local and national political stakes. Allegations against Congress add pressure. Election results could reflect public sentiment on governance.

As three vital by-polls loom in Karnataka, significant political maneuvering unfolds with Congress, BJP, and JD(S) pulling out all the stops to secure voter support. These elections are crucial, not just for the seats themselves, but as indicators of the ruling Congress's standing in the state.

Among the noteworthy candidates, Bharath Bommai, son of former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, is standing in Shiggaon while Nikhil Kumaraswamy, representing the third generation of JD(S)'s founding family, competes in Channapatna. The political heavyweight, Congress's C P Yogeeshwara, contests in Channapatna, adding another layer of competition.

The backdrop to these by-polls is charged with allegations of corruption within Congress ranks, particularly involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. These accusations add intense scrutiny to the upcoming polls, which could serve as an informal referendum on the party's governance over the last year and a half.

(With inputs from agencies.)