Counting for the Davanagere South bypoll in Karnataka began with an unexpected disruption as election officials were forced to break open the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) strong room after the key went missing. The incident occurred just as the counting process was set to commence, briefly delaying the proceedings despite the presence of security personnel and strict adherence to protocols under supervision.
Dramatic Start to Counting
On counting day, officials struggled to access the strong room when the key was found missing. In a decisive move, the lock was broken in the presence of election observers and candidates, allowing the retrieval of EVMs and enabling counting to proceed. The delay was short-lived, and the process soon stabilized.
Congress Takes Commanding Lead
Once counting began, trends quickly favored the Congress party. By the 12th round, Congress candidate Samarth Shamanur had secured a lead of 9,952 votes, with 40,900 votes against BJP candidate Srinivas Dasakariyappa's 30,948. The Davanagere South bypoll was necessitated following the death of senior leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa, making it a prestige battle between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP.
Congress Victory in Bagalkot
In Bagalkot, the Congress registered a decisive victory. Candidate Umesh Meti won the seat by a margin of 21,866 votes after the final (23rd) round of counting. Meti secured 97,941 votes, while the BJP candidate polled 76,075 votes. Earlier in the day, Meti visited the Yalaguresh temple in Yalagur village to seek blessings as counting trends began to favor him. He was accompanied by Karnataka State Primary School Teachers Association president Chandru Nugli and supporters.
Context of the By-elections
The by-elections in both Davanagere South and Bagalkot were triggered by the deaths of sitting MLAs. With the Congress aiming to retain both seats and the BJP looking to make gains ahead of future electoral battles, the results are seen as a key test of strength for both parties amid ongoing political churn in Karnataka.
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