Congress MLA TD Rajegowda retains Sringeri seat after postal ballot recount
Chikkamagaluru : In a closely watched political development, Congress MLA T. D. Rajegowda has emerged victorious again in the recount of postal ballots in the Sringeri Assembly constituency. The official announcement from election authorities is awaited, but celebrations have already begun among party workers.
The recount was conducted at IDSG College in Chikkamagaluru following directions from the Karnataka High Court. The exercise had generated significant curiosity, as the contest between the sitting MLA and his rival remained highly competitive even during the re-evaluation process.
Tight contest ends in Rajegowda’s favour
Despite intense scrutiny and political tension, Rajegowda managed to retain his lead in the recount. Supporters claimed that around 267 votes were rejected, after which the Congress leader secured victory. Soon after the outcome became clear, party workers gathered outside the counting centre, raising slogans and showering flowers to celebrate the result.
MLA reacts to victory
Reacting to the development, Rajegowda said he chose not to challenge the recount order in the Supreme Court, believing that the truth would prevail. “The High Court ordered a recount, and I respected that. I could have appealed, but I wanted the facts to come out. Today, the truth has won again,” he said.
He also addressed earlier allegations of irregularities, stating that repeated claims were made against him during the initial counting. “There were accusations of tampering when some trunks were found open. I had my doubts when the margin was very narrow. Now everything is clear,” he added.
Background of the dispute
The Sringeri seat had witnessed a nail-biting contest in the 2023 Assembly elections. BJP candidate D. N. Jeevaraj had lost to Rajegowda by a narrow margin of just 201 votes. Out of 1,822 postal ballots cast, 279 were rejected, which became a point of contention.
Jeevaraj had challenged the result, seeking a recount of postal ballots. After initial rejection of his plea by district authorities, he approached the High Court, which eventually ordered the recount conducted on May 2, 2026.
With the recount now reaffirming Rajegowda’s victory, the Congress leader has effectively cleared a major political test, strengthening his position in the constituency.
