Karnataka’s 14 constituencies are gearing up for the polls on April 26. The Election Commission and political parties are leaving no stone unturned to ensure maximum voter turnout, especially in Bengaluru constituencies that witnessed poor participation in previous elections. In all, 33 urban constituencies included in this phase recorded below average turnout in the previous elections. These include 28 in BBMP, three in Mysuru, and one each in Mangaluru and Tumakuru. Concerned about the potential impact of heatwave conditions, the EC has taken measures to mitigate any adverse effects on voter turnout. A total of 2.88 crore individuals are eligible to cast their votes in the 14 constituencies, primarily located in the southern and coastal regions of Karnataka.
With public campaigning for the April 26 polls concluding yesterday, today marks the final day of door-to-door campaigning in the 14 constituencies.
Meanwhile, electioneering is gaining momentum in north Karnataka, which will go to the polls on May 7. The Congress party has begun preparations for Rahul Gandhi’s rally in Vijayapura on April 26, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address a rally in Belagavi on April 28.
Several civil society groups continue to voice their discontent over the Election Commission of India’s perceived failure to enforce constitutional integrity by addressing hate speeches, including those made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Earlier this week, these organizations submitted a complaint to the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka, demanding immediate and strict action against Mr. Modi for his “divisive and hateful remarks” against the Muslim community during his election campaign in Rajasthan.
Tribals in the Hunsur-Periyapatna area have expressed their disappointment over the political parties’ lack of attention to their specific demands related to rehabilitation during the election campaign, which concluded yesterday.
