Tumakuru LS Seat in Karnataka to Witness Clash of Veterans: Constituency Watch

Bengaluru, April 16 (IANS) The Tumakuru Lok Sabha constituency in Karnataka will see a showdown between BJP’s V. Somanna and Congress’ S.P. Muddahanumegowda, both veterans. The battle between the Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities is significant, as it will reflect the acceptance of the BJP and JD(S) alliance.

73-year-old Somanna, a top leader of the Lingayat community, faces a crucial election. On the other hand, Congress candidate Muddahanumegowda, backed by DyCM Shivakumar, aims to secure victory with guarantee schemes and leadership support from CM Siddaramaiah.

The constituency includes significant Assembly segments like Chikkanayakanahalli, Tiptur, and Tumakuru City. BJP and JD(S) have won two seats each, and Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara and Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna represent key Assembly segments in the area.

Caste dynamics play a significant role in Tumakuru, with major voter chunks from Vokkaligas and Lingayats. The poor masses, beneficiaries of guarantee schemes, are expected to support the Congress party, while the alliance with JD(S) could benefit the BJP in the constituency.

Sources suggest that the constituency’s mood is influenced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s wave, as well as the regional bonding between leaders like Shivakumar and Somanna. With major communities like SC, Muslims, and Kurubas also holding significant voting power, the election outcome remains crucial for both parties.