The voting process for the bypoll to two Assembly segments in Karnataka on Thursday is moving swiftly. By 1 P.M., polling in the Bagalkot Assembly constituency had surpassed 43%, while in the Davanagere South constituency, it had reached 37.17%. Polling began at 7 A.M. and will continue until 6 P.M.
Official data from the Election Commission of India (ECI) reveals that the voter turnout in Bagalkot was 43.75%, with Davanagere South recording 37.17%. Earlier in the day, by 9 A.M., Davanagere South had seen a turnout of 9.01%, while Bagalkot had 11.87%. The voting percentage had crossed 20% within the first four hours.
BJP candidate Veeranna Charantimath, contesting in the Bagalkot segment, voted alongside his family. Expressing confidence in his victory this time, Charantimath, who narrowly lost in the previous election, mentioned the favorable atmosphere for his campaign.
Allegations of cash distribution to influence voters emerged during the bye-election in Bagalkot, leading to tension in parts of the constituency. Reports from Wambe Colony in Navanagar suggested the distribution of Rs 500 currency notes to voters as an inducement.
Tensions escalated when a group confronted a car belonging to Congress leader Santosh Hokarani, alleging money distribution. Charantimath also alleged that the ruling party had distributed money, pointing out the arrival of people from outside areas and urging all eligible voters to participate.
Congress candidate Umesh Meti cast his vote in the Bagalkot Assembly bye-election, arriving at the polling booth with a ram adorned with Congress flags. A total of 34 candidates are contesting across the two constituencies, with a direct Congress vs. BJP competition in both seats.
