Karnataka Legislative Council elections see clashes and allegations

Voting is underway for four seats in the Karnataka Legislative Council, covering two graduates’ and two teachers’ constituencies. The elections feature a contest between the ruling Congress and the BJP-JD(S) alliance, with 43 candidates participating.

In the Bengaluru Teachers’ constituency, clashes broke out between Congress and BJP workers near Ambedkar College in Nagarabhavi. Police intervened to control the situation following allegations of verbal abuse and attempts to assault BJP MLA Munirathna. Additionally, the BJP-led NDA has filed complaints with election authorities, alleging that Congress candidate Puttanna distributed cash, tiffin boxes, and gift coupons worth up to Rs 15,000 to influence voters through education department officials.

The four constituencies are the South-East Graduates', West Graduates', North-East Teachers', and Bengaluru Teachers' seats. While the BJP currently holds three of these seats, the results are viewed as a test of political coordination between the BJP and JD(S) and the strength of the Congress support base.