Congress Considers HY Meti's Family for Bagalkot By-Election Ticket
Karnataka Public Works Department and District Minister Satish Jarkiholi announced on Friday that the Congress party is likely to nominate a member of the family of the late MLA HY Meti for the upcoming by-election to the Bagalkot assembly constituency. The seat became vacant following Meti's death, prompting this strategic move by the party.
Preparations Underway for By-Poll Victory
Speaking to reporters at the Deputy Commissioner's office in Belagavi, Jarkiholi emphasized that preparations are already in full swing to secure the party's victory in the by-poll. He clarified that the final decision on the candidate will be made by the party high command, after thorough consultations with local voters and the Meti family. This approach aims to ensure community support and alignment with grassroots sentiments.
Addressing KPCC Leadership Speculation
In response to media queries about rumors that the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President position might be assigned to a leader from Belagavi district, Jarkiholi stated that the party has requested the high command to clarify any confusion regarding a potential leadership change. "The high command will make a decision. There was no discussion about the KPCC president's post being allotted to Belagavi district. We will certainly be happy if the post comes to the district," he remarked, highlighting the party's internal processes.
Water Supply and Scarcity Measures
Jarkiholi assured that currently, there is no drinking water shortage anywhere in Belagavi district. However, he cautioned that the situation could deteriorate after April if summer conditions intensify. "If water scarcity arises, supply will be ensured through tankers at the gram panchayat level," he explained, noting that all Gram Panchayats in the district either possess water tankers or have been instructed to procure them. Tahsildars across all taluks have been directed to monitor the situation closely and ensure timely water supply wherever needed.
Request to Maharashtra for Water Release
The minister highlighted a recent incident involving the collapse of the 22nd crest gate of the Hippargi barrage, which led to a significant waste of water from the Krishna River. "Around 2 to 3 tmcft of water has already flown away. To address a possible shortage, the state government is considering requesting the Maharashtra government to release about 2 tmcft of water," he stated, underscoring inter-state cooperation efforts.
Voter List Mapping Progress
Jarkiholi reported that the voter list mapping process is currently underway in Belagavi district, with approximately 85% of the work completed across the 18 assembly constituencies. Officials have been instructed to achieve a target of 92% completion to enhance electoral accuracy and participation.
Addressing allegations raised during a BCC meeting that around 60,000 voters were missing from the Belagavi South constituency, Jarkiholi clarified that the verification process is still ongoing. "Officials are visiting houses up to three times to verify the details. It is their responsibility to trace voters. Another review meeting was scheduled next week," he added, emphasizing the commitment to a thorough and transparent electoral roll update.
