JDS leader and former Karnataka Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy brought the accusations to the public, alleging that money and vouchers are being handed out to Channapatna voters to bolster support for Congress. Kumaraswamy, a prominent figure in the state’s politics, asserted that Congress has been employing unethical strategies to ensure success in the by-poll, specifically to counter his own influence in the region. His claims were bolstered by his assertions that gift coupons worth hundreds of rupees were being distributed through local Congress offices and supporters, actions that he argued undermine the democratic process.
The Channapatna by-poll is anticipated to be a close contest, with both JDS and Congress seeing it as a crucial battle. As a stronghold for JDS, the region represents a symbolic challenge for Congress, which is determined to make inroads into JDS-dominated territories under its recent coalition with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Kumaraswamy expressed that the tactics reportedly used by Congress are an attempt to dilute the regional loyalty of voters and to shift their alignment toward Congress, potentially affecting JDS’s longstanding grip on the constituency.
Observers indicate that these accusations of vote-buying practices have escalated the tension around the by-poll, drawing increased scrutiny and public attention. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has not yet publicly commented on the matter. However, sources familiar with the ECI’s mandate noted that any evidence of financial inducement could prompt investigations and potentially severe repercussions, including candidate disqualification and election suspension in cases of verified misconduct.