The dates for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections have been announced, with voting taking place on May 10 and the results declared on May 13. The Congress has already released a list of 124 candidates, while the BJP is expected to release their list in the first week of April.
The BJP has been in power in Karnataka for the past few years and is looking to win 150 seats this time around. However, survey reports suggest that the party is trailing behind the Congress, with no party likely to win a majority. The Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities hold a significant presence in Karnataka politics, and BJP has entrusted the responsibility of the election to BS Yeddyurappa, who has a stronghold among the Lingayats.
The Final Test for Yeddyurappa
This election is like a final test for Yeddyurappa, who has already retired from electoral politics and is now making way for his sons. If he passes this test, then the path for his sons will become easier. He has set a target of winning 130 seats for the BJP this time. However, Congress and JD(S) are still silent on the alliance, and if both the parties come together, then the difficulties for BJP will increase.
The Lingayat Community
The Lingayat community plays a significant role in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, with an estimated population of 17% in the state. Yeddyurappa, as the tallest leader of the Lingayat community, has been instrumental in connecting it with the BJP, which was previously associated with Congress. The community affects 90 to 100 seats out of 224 in the assembly.
Yeddyurappa’s Son Contesting from Shikaripura
Yeddyurappa’s son Vijayendra is contesting from Shikaripura, his father’s safe seat. He was in the race last time too, but the ticket was not confirmed due to the objection of a BJP national secretary. However, this time he is almost certain to get the ticket.
Abolishing Reservation for Muslims
A few days before the elections, the BJP government abolished the 4% reservation given to Muslims, playing a masterstroke that could further polarize the communities. The party aims to win 150 seats, and Yeddyurappa has a target of winning 130 seats for the BJP this time.
The Congress and JD(S) Silence
Despite the silence from Congress and JD(S), who formed the government in 2018, an alliance between the two parties could prove challenging for the BJP. With no party likely to win a majority, the Karnataka assembly elections could be crucial in determining the political future of the state.