Bengaluru, April 10 (NationPress) The Karnataka Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, conveyed strong optimism on Friday regarding the Congress party's prospects in the bypolls for two Assembly constituencies, insisting that there is no reason to doubt the party's impending victory.

Addressing the media in Bengaluru, Parameshwara expressed confidence that the party will secure wins in both areas, despite reports indicating a relatively low voter turnout in Davanagere South and Bagalkot. He highlighted that turnout trends can vary significantly between general elections and by-elections, predicting a favorable outcome for Congress.

It is noteworthy that the voting for the bypoll in these two Assembly segments concluded peacefully on Thursday, with polling at stations in Bagalkot and Davanagere South surpassing 68 percent.

As per the official data from the Election Commission of India (ECI), the voter turnout in Bagalkot was recorded at 68.65 percent, whereas Davanagere South had a turnout of 68.43 percent.

In Davanagere, Congress has put forth Samarth Mallikarjun as their candidate, while the BJP has selected Srinivas T. Dasakariyappa. The Social Democratic Party of India is represented by Afsar Kodlipet in this contest.

In Bagalkot, Congress candidate Umesh Meti is up against Veranna Charantimath from the BJP.

Parameshwara mentioned that the matter of internal reservations will be determined by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He added that this issue could be addressed either in a regular cabinet meeting or through a special session, emphasizing the need to ensure fairness to all communities before finalizing the decision.

In response to rumors regarding alleged “zombie drugs,” the Home Minister dismissed these assertions as unfounded. He explained that preliminary investigations suggest the individual involved was a lorry driver from northern states like Haryana or Punjab, who had reportedly consumed medication for an illness along with alcohol, resulting in peculiar behavior.

Parameshwara clarified that no criminal charges have been filed concerning this incident. He noted that the Bengaluru Police Commissioner had updated him on the situation, confirming the absence of any evidence pointing to “zombie drug” usage. Furthermore, he mentioned that the individual who spread these claims on social media has been interrogated and admitted to sharing the information intentionally.

Touching on the reported LPG gas shortage, the Home Minister assured that the relevant department is working on resolving the issue and that the state government has reached out to the Centre regarding supply allocations. He expressed optimism for a resolution, noting that developments such as a potential ceasefire and the movement of ships through the Gulf could help restore supplies to India, alleviating the shortage.