Davanagere/Bagalkot, April 9 (NationPress) The by-election for two Assembly segments in Karnataka concluded without incident on Thursday, with polling at stations in both the Bagalkot and Davanagere South constituencies exceeding 68 percent.

The voting began at 7 a.m. and continued until 6 p.m., with results set to be revealed on May 4.

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

Notably, several voters from Karnataka residing in Goa demonstrated a keen interest in participating in the Bagalkot bye-election. Approximately 70 to 80 voters from Madapur village made their way back from Goa in two private mini buses to cast their votes.

These individuals, who had relocated to Goa for work, returned to their home village to fulfill their civic duty and were seen eagerly waiting in queues at the polling booths in Madapur. They noted that a local leader, Vittal, had supported them during the COVID lockdown by providing food and transportation back home. "We have come to cast our votes now," they expressed.

Earlier, a confrontation arose between workers from the Congress and the Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI) near Basha Nagar main road in Davanagere during the polling, creating temporary tension in the vicinity.

This incident took place outside a polling booth established at Millat School. Reports indicate that SDPI polling agents had positioned a table about 200 metres from the polling site, which Congress workers disputed, claiming it was beyond the allowed limit.

Tensions escalated when the SDPI's table was reportedly overturned, leading to a confrontation between the two parties. The situation intensified as arguments turned into a physical clash.

Police intervened and, after some efforts, managed to restore order.

Moreover, the bye-election in Bagalkot faced accusations of mismanagement, with voters struggling due to inadequate facilities at a polling station in Aminagad.

Reports indicated that voters arriving to cast their ballots were deprived of basic amenities such as drinking water, causing significant discomfort in the sweltering heat. There were also insufficient shaded areas, forcing individuals to stand in long lines under the sun.

During these challenging conditions, an elderly woman in line reportedly fell ill and collapsed. Local residents promptly assisted her and arranged for medical attention.

This incident has raised alarms regarding the readiness and arrangements at polling stations for the bye-election.

In addition, allegations of monetary inducement to sway voters emerged during the Bagalkot bye-election, causing unrest in certain areas.

Reports from Wambe Colony in Navanagar suggested that cash was being distributed to voters as an incentive. Locals claimed that Rs 500 notes were being handed out.

A viral video, whose authenticity remains unverified by IANS, features a woman displaying a Rs 500 note and alleging it was provided by Congress members while expressing her discontent that only Rs 500 was given.

Meanwhile, tensions heightened when a group surrounded a vehicle belonging to Congress leader Santosh Hokarani, claiming money was being distributed and confronting those inside. Hokarani reportedly exited the vehicle to address the crowd regarding the claims.

A total of 34 candidates are contesting in the two constituencies, with over 2,500 police personnel deployed at polling stations to avert any disruptions. The primary competition is between the Congress and the BJP in both locations.

The SDPI is optimistic that the fierce competition between the BJP and Congress will leverage an advantage for their party.

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

Approximately 1,564 staff members, along with additional security, were deployed to oversee the voting process.

The main contest in Bagalkot is between Congress candidate Umesh Meti and BJP candidate Veeranna Charantimath.

The bye-election was called following the passing of Congress MLA H.Y. Meti.

For the Davanagere South Assembly segment, authorities established 284 polling stations, with 76 classified as sensitive. Prohibitory orders were enforced within a 200-metre radius of polling locations. The constituency consists of 2.31 lakh voters, with 25 candidates in the race. Over 1,000 security personnel were deployed to ensure safety.

Congress has nominated Samarth Mallikarjun, while the BJP has chosen Srinivas T. Dasakariyappa. Afsar Kodlipet is contesting as the SDPI candidate.

The bye-election was necessitated by the loss of veteran Congress leader, MLA Shamanur Shivashankarappa.