Intense battle set for Davanagere south bypoll, polling today

Davanagere, April 08: The high-stakes bypoll in Davanagere South constituency has drawn statewide attention, with aggressive campaigning and a fierce contest among candidates. Polling is scheduled for tomorrow, and all arrangements have been put in place for smooth voting.

A total of 25 candidates are in the fray, including nominees from major parties like Congress and BJP. Notably, the constituency has a significant minority population, and as many as 14 candidates from minority communities, including SDPI, are contesting, adding a unique dimension to the electoral battle.

The by-election comes at a crucial time for Congress, which is riding high after recent victories in Shiggaon, Sandur and Channapatna. The party now faces another test of strength. The seat fell vacant following the demise of senior leaders, making the contest emotionally and politically significant. However, internal debates over ticket distribution, including allegations of dynastic politics, have also surfaced.

On the other hand, BJP has attempted a social experiment by fielding the son of a daily wage worker, projecting it as a move to empower grassroots leadership. The contrasting strategies of both parties have intensified the contest, making it one of the most closely watched bypolls in the state.

Election officials have completed final preparations, with polling scheduled from 7 am to 6 pm. A total of 284 polling booths have been set up across the constituency, of which 76 have been identified as highly sensitive. Webcasting facilities have been installed at all booths to ensure transparency.

Around 1,425 election staff have been deployed, and over 1,000 security personnel have been assigned to maintain law and order. The security arrangement includes armed reserve units, ASIs, probationary PSIs, head constables, constables, and women constables.

The total number of voters in the constituency stands at 2,31,072. Among them, women voters (1,17,690) outnumber men (1,13,399), while 43 voters belong to the third gender category. Special “Sakhi” booths have been set up to encourage women voters’ participation.

Authorities have made medical screening mandatory for polling staff to ensure fitness for duty. Officials stated that those with genuine health concerns will be exempted based on medical advice.

With the countdown to polling underway, the district administration has tightened monitoring, especially in booths where extended voting hours were reported in previous elections. Officials have reiterated their commitment to conducting a free and fair election.