Bangalore: Campaigning for By-poll Ends: Leaders Go Back

Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Dec 26: The electioneering for the eight assembly constituencies in the state which go for the by-polls tomorrow, ended at 5 pm on Thursday December 25. The leaders of different parties including those from the Congress, BJP and the JD(S) kept themselves busy in campaigning for their candidates till evening, but left without ruffling the feathers of the Election Commission which has been keeping a strict vigil on the activities in these constituencies.

The by-election has become a prestige issue for the Congress and the JD(S) leaders whose candidates deserted them by falling to the lure of ministerial berths in the BJP government, while the BJP is determined to keep up its promise of ensuring the victory of all its candidates. Chief Minister Yeddyurappa was seen visiting various villages in Turuvekere constituency. Ex-prime minister Deve Gowda, ex-chief minister Kumaraswami, KPCC ex-president Mallikarjun Kharge and several other leaders got involved with brisk compaigning.

All the parties ensured that their leaders leave the constituencies before the deadline set by the Election Commission, in view of various actions initiated and warnings issued by the Election Commission.

In the meanwhile, the Election Commission termed the rumours which said that election in the Madhugiri constituency where the situation is sensitive might be postponed, as baseless. The Commission has however, classified the entire Madhugiri constituency as sensitive area and made necessary security arrangements. On Thursday too several things being transported illegally for being distributed among the voters, were seized.

The Election Commission has been doing everything within its command for ensuring a free and fair poll. Security forces have been moved to these constituencies from various districts of the state. However, the state has not sought any special police contingents from the centre.