Davanagere/Bagalkot, April 9 (NationPress) Voting in the Davanagere South and Bagalkot Assembly constituencies in Karnataka surpassed 20 percent by 11 A.M. on Thursday. Polling began at 7 A.M., allowing voters to cast their ballots until 6 P.M.

As per the official statistics released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), Bagalkot registered a voting percentage of 27.83 percent, whereas Davanagere South attained 22.01 percent. By 9 A.M., voter turnout in Davanagere South was recorded at 9.01 percent, while Bagalkot noted 11.87 percent.

During the Bagalkot Assembly bye-election, Congress candidate Umesh Meti cast his vote at Booth No. 39 in his hometown, Timmappur. He made a unique entrance with a ram (an adult male sheep) decorated with Congress flags before proceeding to vote. It’s noteworthy that Umesh Meti is a member of the shepherd community.

A total of 34 candidates are contesting across both constituencies. Over 2,500 police personnel have been deployed to ensure a smooth polling process without any disturbances. The main competition is between the Congress and the BJP in both constituencies.

The SDPI is optimistic that the fierce contest between the BJP and Congress will provide an advantage to their party. Results are scheduled to be declared on May 4.

In the Bagalkot Assembly segment, there are 2.59 lakh voters and nine candidates contesting. A total of 332 polling stations have been established, comprising 1.26 lakh male and 1.32 lakh female voters.

Approximately 1,564 staff members, along with extra security forces, have been assigned to oversee the polling process.

The primary competition in Bagalkot is between Congress’s Umesh Meti and BJP’s Veeranna Charantimath.

This bye-election was necessitated following the passing of Congress MLA H.Y. Meti.

In Davanagere South, authorities have set up 284 polling stations, with 76 designated as sensitive. Prohibitory measures have been enforced within a 200-metre radius of polling locations. The constituency has 2.31 lakh voters and features 25 candidates. Over 1,000 security personnel are present to ensure safety.

Congress has nominated Samarth Mallikarjun, while the BJP has put forth Srinivas T. Dasakariyappa. Afsar Kodlipet is running as the candidate for the Social Democratic Party of India.

The bye-election was called due to the death of veteran Congress leader, MLA Shamanur Shivashankarappa.

BJP State President and MLA, B.Y. Vijayendra, urged voters through social media platform X: “Dear voters of Bagalkote and Davanagere South Assembly constituencies, I encourage you to come out in large numbers and exercise your right to vote in today’s bye-election. Each vote is crucial for our constituency’s future. Your participation is vital for strengthening democracy.”

“I especially appeal to our mothers, sisters, and first-time young voters to participate actively. For a robust Karnataka and a secure future, do not miss your right. Cast your vote to fortify democracy,” he added.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday evening urged voters in Davanagere South and Bagalkot to support Congress candidates in the bye-elections, emphasizing the importance of continuity in development and the legacy of senior leaders.