With the campaign for the May 10 assembly elections in Karnataka ending, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured the people of the state that their dreams were his own. He emphasized the significant role of Karnataka’s economy in the country’s development and commended the BJP’s government for their contribution to the state’s economy during their term. The PM reiterated the party’s commitment to the development of the state and urged citizens to vote responsibly on May 10.
The three major political parties, BJP, Congress, and Janata Dal-Secular (JDS), have made promises and launched accusations at each other to secure a majority in the state’s 224-seat Assembly. The BJP is facing an air of anti-incumbency factor but is confident in retaining power with a full majority. Lingayat and Vokkaliga voters, comprising 17% and 11% of the population, respectively, are expected to play a significant role in the election.
Karnataka is the only state in the South where the BJP is in power, and the party has put all its might to strengthen its support base, with top leadership including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah campaigning for the party. The Congress campaign saw Rahul Gandhi camping in the state for 20 days and top leaders from the party, as well as Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, trying to improve the party’s prospects in Karnataka.
The BJP’s manifesto includes promises such as the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and repealing job reservations for Muslims. The Congress promises to bring back the Muslim quota, higher reservations for various classes, cash handouts, and freebies.
The Karnataka assembly will go to polls on May 10, and the counting of votes will take place on May 13, with the majority mark to form the government being 113 seats. The outcome of the election will determine the party in power and the future direction of the state’s development.
