Political Tensions Escalate Ahead of Channapatna Bypoll: Corruption Accusations and Racial Remarks Stir Controversy

Ahead of the Channapatna by-election, political tensions rise as BJP's Yediyurappa condemns Congress for corruption, while JD(S) protests against racist remarks by Karnataka's Housing Minister. Union Minister Kumaraswamy promises development and job creation if Nikhil Kumaraswamy wins. The bypolls are scheduled for November 13.

In a fiery campaign rally, former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP leader Yediyurappa urged voters to deliver a powerful message to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah by electing NDA candidate Nikhil Kumaraswamy in the Channapatna bypoll. 'There's no point in electing Congress puppet CP Yogeshwar in this land of toys,' he asserted, criticizing the state government's inability to even fill potholes.

Yediyurappa accused the ruling Congress of rampant corruption, claiming, 'They've discontinued the Bhagya Lakshmi scheme and halted several pro-people projects. This government lacks integrity and is financially bankrupt.' Calling for grassroots mobilization, he expressed confidence that Nikhil would secure a decisive victory with over 25,000 votes.

Meanwhile, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, while campaigning for his son and JD(U) leader Nikhil Kumaraswamy, took aim at Congress leaders, labeling them 'thieves uniting with thieves' and pledging development-focused governance. He promised substantial advancements within three years, including transforming Ramanagara and Channapatna into twin cities and establishing a factory near the silk market to generate employment.

The campaign atmosphere further intensified as JD(S) condemned Karnataka Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan's 'racist remarks' targeting Union Minister Kumaraswamy. The party denounced the comments as racial discrimination and urged action against the minister.

The Channapatna, Shiggaon, and Sandur bypolls are set for November 13, with results to be announced on November 23. The elections follow the resignation of the sitting candidates, setting the stage for high-stakes political contests. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)