Sringeri result reversed as recount hands victory to BJP’s Jeevaraj
Chikkamagaluru : The political landscape in the Sringeri Assembly constituency has undergone a significant shift after BJP candidate D.N. Jeevaraj clinched victory in the postal ballot recount and received his official election certificate.
Jeevaraj defeated sitting Congress MLA T.D. Rajegowda by a margin of 52 votes, overturning the earlier election result that had favoured Rajegowda by 201 votes. The win strengthens BJP’s position in Chikkamagaluru district, where the party now holds one of the five Assembly seats.
Following communication from the Election Commission confirming the recount outcome, Jeevaraj moved quickly to obtain his certificate. He reportedly visited the election officer’s residence and insisted on immediate issuance. Despite initial hesitation from officials, the certificate was eventually handed over.
The dispute dates back to the 2023 Assembly elections, where concerns were raised over the rejection of 279 postal ballots out of 1,822. Jeevaraj had questioned the process and sought a recount, but his plea was rejected by district authorities at the time.
Undeterred, he approached the Karnataka High Court, which ordered a recount after examining the case. The recount process revealed discrepancies significant enough to alter the final result, ultimately favouring the BJP candidate.
The outcome has intensified political debate in the state, with BJP leaders describing it as a vindication of their stand, while Congress leaders have called for a closer examination of the recount process.
Experts note that the case underscores the growing importance of postal ballots in determining election outcomes, particularly in closely fought contests. It also raises broader questions about election management and dispute resolution mechanisms.
As Jeevaraj prepares to take office, the Sringeri episode stands out as a rare instance where a legal intervention has directly changed an electoral verdict, setting a precedent for future disputes.
