Karnataka Assembly Election 2018 updates: Amit Shah accuses Congress of allying with 'traitors' for winning polls

JD(S) hopes Vokkaliga mobilisation will help party become kingmaker, if not king

There is a sense that JD(S) and BJP could forge an alliance and form the government with HD Kumaraswamy at the helm, because more than Congress, the BJP is in a better position to offer Kumaraswamy the chief minister’s post. Sacrificing BS Yeddyurappa would not be a tough call for the BJP, if it comes at a cost of snatching another state away from the Congress.

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IMD forecasts rain, thundershowers for Saturday

Polling day may be marred by inclement weather, with the IMD issued a warning for thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds at isolated places over Karnataka on Saturday.

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BJP claims to stand for ‘all-round development & fast-paced development’

We stand for all round development & fast-paced development! Large and Medium Industrial Units approved

During 2008-2013 : 2345 units
During 2013-2018 : 1735 units#Vote4ChangeVote4BJP

— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 11, 2018

Section 144 imposed in Bengaluru

The Bengaluru Police Commissioner T Suneel Kumar has passed prohibitory orders under Section 144, which will last in the city until 6 pm on Sunday evening. Under the provisions of this section, more than four people cannot assemble in a public place, reported Bangalore Mirror . The report added that the police has also undertaken “adequate measures” to maintain law and order in the city, including sensitive in sensitive areas.

RECAP: Karnataka voter ID row: Arrested Congress corporator claims frame job by BJP as parties continue to sling mud

Yeshwanthpur corporator GK Venkatesh, who was arrested along with Congress workers K Sunandamma Bore Gowda and Meenamma a day after the flying squad of the Election Commission (EC) seized around 10,000 voter identity cards, laptops and several copies of Form 6 with Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) seals on it from an apartment in Jalahalli, claimed he and his colleagues are being framed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Close associate of Congress leader Ramanath Rai allegedly attacked in Bantwal

#Karnataka: Close associate of Congress leader Ramanath Rai, Kachigudda Sanjeev Kumar, allegedly attacked in Bantwal; 4 others including Kumar's wife injured, 2 cars damaged. pic.twitter.com/LQBActx1q3

— ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2018

Vitriol-filled poll campaign ends in Karnataka 

The vitriol-filled campaign for the Karnataka Assembly elections ended on Thursday with top leaders of the BJP and Congress, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, making a last-gasp effort to sway the voters in a likely cliffhanger.

From corruption to communalism, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s Rs 70 lakh Hublot watch to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s foreign origin, the electoral potboiler had it all.

Like all state polls since he assumed the reins of power in New Delhi, Modi helmed the BJP’s adrenaline-charged campaign despite the party having declared BS Yeddyurappa its chief ministerial candidate, while Rahul Gandhi helmed that of the Congress.

Though Modi remained out of the electoral scene for a long time after addressing a public meeting in February, he launched a blitzkrieg on 1 May, addressing over a score of rallies in his bid to wrest the key southern state, which BJP chief Amit Shah dubbed as the party’s “gateway to south”, from the Congress. – PTI

EC defers decision on Karnataka voter ID recovery

The Election Commission on Thursday night deferred a decision on the recovery of nearly 10,000 voter ID cards from a flat in Rajarajeshwari Nagar Assembly seat of poll-bound Karnataka even as it sought fresh information from the state election machinery.

Highly-placed sources in the Commission said prima facie it seems that most of the voter ID cards recovered were “genuine”. But the reason as to why they were found in the flat is still being ascertained. – PTI

Updates for 11 May, 2018 begin here

Fake voter ID scam shows Congress desperate for win, says Amit Shah

“Recovery of fake voter ID cards in Rajarajeshwari Nagar shows how desperately Congress wants to win the election. I want to alert those whose fake IDs have been made, that don’t fall in Congress’ trap and disturb polls. Our workers will be present at each and every booth to see that the polling process is not corrupted,” Shah said.

Only difference between BJP and Congress is that they have no qualms allying with traitors like SDPI and PFI

​

Lashing out at the Congress party, Amit Shah said that the Congress party was conniving with divisive forces such as SDPI and PFI to win elections. On a question about Rahul Gandhi labelling Karnataka election a fight of ideologies, Shah said, “The only difference between BJP and Congress is that they have no qualms allying with traitors like SDPI and PFI.”

“We can lose elections but can’t sit with Social Democratic Party of India and Popular Front of India,” Shah added.

Amit Shah predicts over 130 seats for BJP, says no need for any alliance arrangement

Addressing a press conference, Amit Shah revealed his much talked about prediction for elections. For Karnataka he says, he expects no less than 130 seats for his party and ruled out the possibility of any sort of alliance with JD(S).

BJP took suggestions from voters to expand manifesto, says Amit Shah

Shah said that the BJP does not believe in crafting scehemes for a specific religion and has taken inputs from voters across the state to formulate its manifesto. He said that the party will “waive off bank loans up to Rs.1 lakh in 10 days of government formation and will implement schemes to regulate vegetable prices.”

Development in state stuck like Bengaluru traffic, says Amit Shah

Amit Shah said that the development in Karnataka, under the Siddaramaiah government, is stuck like the traffic in Bengaluru. He said that the people’s anger is perceptible across the state, and when a government fails like this, only then a chief minister has to leave his home seat and look for safe seats to fight elections.

Farmer suicides increased by 173% under Siddaramaiah govt, says Amit Shah

Speaking to the press, Amit Shah said that the Siddaramaiah government was unperturbed by the increasing number of farmer suicides and their distress for 5 years. He said that while the farmer suicides under Congress shot up by 173 percent in Karnataka, in neighbouring BJP-ruled Maharashtra the figures have come down by 73 percent. 

“Siddaramaiah government did nothing for the farmers and they are not even ready to give answers for their failure,” Shah said.

Siddaramaiah will lose Badami and Chamundeshwari seats: Amit Shah

“The people of Karnataka are seething with anger, which is palpable as one tours the state. When we campaigned in Badami, there would hardly be a household which did not participate in our roadshow. This shows that people are upset with the government. I think he will lose Badami with an even greater margin than in Chamundeshwari,” Amit Shah.

Siddaramaiah govt Independent India’s most unsuccessful govt: Amit Shah

Speaking at a press conference, Amit Shah said that the Siddaramaiah government is one of the most useless governments in Independent India. He said that he was able to experience the anger in people during his comprehensive campaign programme. He also quoted law and order figures to say that the government has failed utterly on all fronts.

Amit Shah addresses press conference on last day of campaign

On last day of Karnataka campaign Rahul Gandhi taunts Modi over his aversion to press interactions

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Buoyant after addressing a long press conference, Congress president Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter and used the opportunity to hit out on Narendra Modi. Latching on to the PM’s reluctance to face press conferences and unplanned media interactions, Rahul said that he would continue to more and more pressers in the future too. 

Enjoyed meeting the regional & national press today in Bengaluru. We had a packed house! I’m sorry not everyone got a chance to ask a question due to the paucity of time.

But, unlike our PM who hasn’t had a press conference in 4 yrs., I will be doing many more of these! pic.twitter.com/tzNVHVLXdu

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 10, 2018

BJP deploys 50 of its netas to on last day of campaigning 

According to NDTV , Union Ministers Ananth Kumar,  Anurag Thakur, DV Sadananda Gowda,  Krishnapal Gujjar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Piyush Goyal, Prakash Javadekar, and Santosh Gangwar are in Karnataka. They are among the senior leaders scheduled to address around 50 mega road shows across the state. The BJP’s three-time Chief Ministers Raman Singh and Shivraj Singh Chouhan are also part of the group that will address the roadshows.

‘Karnataka is BJP’s door to south’: Amit Shah on party’s poll prospects and 2019 Lok Sabha elections

In an interview given to Firstpost, Amit Shah discussed the prospects of his party in the Karnataka elections at length. “We are not taking any chances. It is very important for us. The Karnataka polls are the BJP’s door to the south. This shows how much importance we are giving these elections,” he said. 

BJP set up committee to grant reservation to OBC communities 

“Our government increased the creamy layer income cap from Rs. 6 lakh to Rs. 8 lakh per year and also constituted a commission to sub-categorise OBC communities to benefit them with reservation within constitutional sanctity,” Modi said.

Narendra Modi addresses SC/ST/OBC and Slum Morcha Karyakartas of BJP through NaMo app

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the SC/ST/OBC and Slum Morcha workers of karnataka BJP through the NaMo app. He said that the BJP firmly believed in BR Ambedkar’s ideology and was committed to fulfilling his dream.

“Taking inspiration from the great saints of Karnataka like Madara Chennaiah, Basaveswara and Urilinga Peddiare, we trying to fulfill Baba Saheb’s dream of making a powerful and prosperous nation,” Modi said.

‘Rebel’ MH Ambareesh opts out of Mandya contest as Congress seeks his support to reclaim lost ground

This pre-poll season, Ambareesh, known as ‘rebel star’ in the Kannada movie industry, indulged in a cat-and-mouse game with Congress leaders by refusing to accept the Assembly ticket. While Ambareesh seems upset, there is discontent among his fans and followers as well. However, regardless of him refusing to contest, the party was counting on him for support.

Though Ambareesh, a Vokkaliga, has opted out of the poll fray, his meeting with JD(S) state president and Gowda’s son HD Kumaraswamy has alerted political workers since JD(S) is already gaining support among a major chunk of the Vokkaliga population in the district.

Ambareesh hasn’t formally endorsed JD(S) yet. Kumaraswamy was quoted as saying: “He is disappointed with the way he was treated by the Congress… Ambareesh treats me as his younger brother. I am hopeful he will take a decision in a couple of days.” Ambareesh has, however, stated that he is still loyal to the Congress.

Read the full report here

My govt’s singular focus was to bring glory back to Karnataka, says Siddaramaiah

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Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Twitter that his government’s “singular focus” was to bring glory back to Karnataka. “We have come a long way from being the most corrupt state in 2010 to become the investment capital of India by 2018,” he said.

Looking back at last 5 yrs, my govt's singular focus was to bring glory back to Karnataka. We have come a long way from being the most corrupt state in 2010 to become the investment capital of India by 2018.

Yet there is so much more we have to do. #CongressForNavaKarnataka pic.twitter.com/vg4ZraDv1v

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 10, 2018

“I don’t want to get a certificate from Rahul Gandhi or Siddaramaiah about the secular identity of JD(S),” HD Kumaraswamy tells CNN-News18

BJP on personal slander trip, not serious about Karnataka: Rahul Gandhi

Congress President Rahul Gandhi said the BJP has restricted itself to only mounting personal attacks on him and his party leaders during its Karnataka campaign and lacked seriousness about what they wished to deliver to the people in the state.

“We put up a vision for the state while our opposition restricted itself to making personal attacks at the Chief Minister (Siddaramaiah), (Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun) Khargeji, and myself and others,” Rahul told the media in Bengaluru.

“They (BJP) have not really named what they want to do for Karnataka. What the Congress wants to do for the state is very very clear,” he said.

IANS

Watch: Amit Shah holds road show in Badami constituency

#WATCH BJP President Amit Shah at a road show in Badami, CM candidate BS Yeddyurappa also present. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/z8InB4pXoG

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2018

Amit Shah holds roadshow in Badami constituency

Watch BJP National President Shri @AmitShah's massive roadshow in Badami constituency, Karnataka at https://t.co/uSsmrczi43 #SarkaraBadalisiBJPGellisi pic.twitter.com/HS8cibLF27

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 10, 2018

‘Congress press meet a desperate attempt to convey their leaders are united’

At the BJP press conference, Piyush Goyal said that he was “amazed” that there was a press conference that seemed only to have been called to try and address the issue of internal dissent and discontent in the Congress.

“It was a desperate attempt to convey that Congress’ leaders are united and there are no divisions in the party,” Goyal said.

It was a desperate attempt to convey that Congress' leaders are united & there are no divisions in the party: @PiyushGoyal

— Piyush Goyal Office (@PiyushGoyalOffc) May 10, 2018

Congress press meet almost looked tutored, says BJP

At a press conference by the BJP, Union minister Piyush Goyal lashed out at Rahul Gandhi for not addressing issues particular to Karnataka. “It almost looked like a tutored press conference Many weren’t allowed to ask questions. If an attempt was made to ask, questions were paraphrased,” he said.

“Congress, their president, along with the failed and corrupt Siddaramaiah government have no answers on issues of Karnataka,” he said.

‘My mother is more Indian than many Indians I see’

Responding to Narendra Modi’s “personal attacks” against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi said, “My mother is Italian, she also lived larger part of her life in India. She is more Indian than many Indians I see.”

He lashed out at Modi for bringing up Sonia’s Italian heritage. “My mother sacrificed for this country; she has suffered for it. It shows the quality of the prime minister when he makes these types of comments,” Rahul said.

My mother is more Indian than many Indian people I have met. If the PM likes to abuse her, he may do so if it pleases him: Congress President @RahulGandhi #CongressForNavaKarnataka

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 10, 2018

‘Congress will win hands down’

Alleging that RSS-BJP want to snatch the spirit of Karnataka and impose upon regressive ideology, Rahul Gandhi said that the Congress “will never allow” them to do so.

He asserted that that Congress will win the Karnataka Assembly polls “hands down”. He said, “Whatever comes out of the prime minister’s mouth is what is actually in his heart. He is absolutely convinced now, and he is right, that he is going to lose Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and he is going to lose 2019,”

We've developed Karnataka extensively over the past five years, we'll continue along that path of development more aggressively: Congress President @RahulGandhi #CongressForNavaKarnataka pic.twitter.com/eNC4kAlRnq

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 10, 2018

‘It is my job to visit religous institutions’

Responding to BJP’s tag of ‘Election Hindu’ for him, Rahul Gandhi said, “Our people have different religious beliefs. As a leader of the political party, it is my job to visit the religious institution that invites me. I will however not go to a single institution that divides the society.”

The BJP doesn't understand the term 'Hindu.' When BJP uses the term 'Election Hindu' it defines their own perspective of the religion: Congress President @RahulGandhi #CongressForNavaKarnataka pic.twitter.com/qSMiU5bcOm

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 10, 2018

‘Narendra Modi has anger inside of him’

Responding to personal attacks made by Narendra Modi against him, Rahul Gandhi narrated a story of Buddha and said that the prime minister had anger inside of him. “He is angry with everybody, not only me. I am a lightning rod for anger, I attract anger. But that is his problem. It is not my problem,” he said.

He claimed that the Union ministers were visiting state to campaign for the BJP because of “panic”. “Congress has clearly demonstrated to them what it is capable of in Karnataka. This is a fight between the spirit of Karnataka and the RSS. We are depending on our extremely solid leadership in Karnataka. The RSS is trying to take over your state,” he said.

Rahul slams Modi for not raising Doka La issue during Wuhan summit

Rahul Gandhi  spoke on his concerns over Narendra Modi’s “heart-to-heart” summit with Chinese president Xi Jinping. “The prime minister went to China and didn’t mention a word about Doka La. Are you telling me no agenda? What does he mean by going to China and Nepal with no agenda?”

“Our foreign policy has been decimated. And it because he views foreign policy as individual exercise. There are huge forces and he needs to take into account the people sitting in the foreign ministry,” he added.

He justified why he raised his concern in the first place. “I am very passionate about the China issue. The central challenge is our ability to give jobs to our youngsters. China is a competitor. I am very passionate when I see fundamental errors being made. There is a disaster in the foreign policies,” he said.

‘Atrocities against women a national issue, will continue to raise it’

Rahul Gandhi responded to the row after he held candlelight march against Kathua and Unnao rape case. “Kathua and Unnao rape cases are fundamental issues. The treatment of our women is a fundamental issue. Narendra Modi likes to talk about bullet trains, but not about these issues,” he said.

He accused the prime minister of not talking on farmers’ issues or the tickets given to Reddy brothers. “Modi has not given one rupee for the farmers of Karnataka. He comes and says, he fights for corruption. On his stage, there is Yeddyurappa and on the other side there are the Reddy brothers, who’ve stolen as much money as the Congress put in MGNREGA. In none of his speeches does he talk about the eight tickets given to the Reddy brothers.”

“And by the way, atrocities against women is a national issue and we will continue to raise it,” he added.

‘Modi has nothing to say about Karnataka’s future’

Responding to Narendra Modi’s “naamdaar” jibe, “Modi has nothing to say anything about the future of Karnataka. I am not going to engage in his distractions.”

He also addressed the Rafale deal. “Modi said the Rafale deal was a cracked by the NDA government was better than the deal cracked by UPA. I agree with Modi, it was a good deal for him and his friends. He didn’t follow the procedure. He paid Rs 1,500 crore for a Rs 700 crore plane. You can see the effects of it with the kind of money they are throwing around in the state.,” he siad.

There is a lack of seriousness in BJP, says Rahul Gandhi

Beginning the press conference, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said, “​I’ve been now travelling around Karnataka for a couple of months. The Congress has got a very good campaign. Our party is united. Our Opposition has restricted itself from making personal attacks against our chief minister and leaders. We are confident of winning the election.”

Lashing out at the BJP for its “lack of seriousness”, Rahul said, “We prepared a manifesto and it is truly on the essence of Karnataka. In contrast, the BJP made another manifesto in three-four days, copying things from our manifesto. There is a lack of seriousness in  the BJP.”

We are here to create history, says Siddaramaiah

People of Karnataka will answer that question on 12th May.

And they will do so decisively.

I am often told history is against me as no sitting govt in Karnataka has been re-elected in a long time.

But we are here to create history & not to obey it.https://t.co/qRfSg276Q7

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 10, 2018

‘Congress blocked OBC Commission’

Narendra Modi accused the Congress of doing vote bank politics and blocking the bill in the Rajya Sabha that gives constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes. “Congress wants the votes of OBC community but they did not allow OBC Commission to get Constitutional status,” he said.

Congress wants the votes of OBC community but they did not allow OBC Commission to get Constitutional Status : PM Modi #BJP4InclusiveVikasa pic.twitter.com/cj7HGvQFu5

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 10, 2018

‘BJP working to empower SC/ST/OBCs’

“Today through various schemes, the government is working towards providing social justice and equality,” Narendra Modi said during his interaction with the BJP workers from SC/ST/OBC category.

He said that the BJP was working to empower the backward classes. “Stand up and MUDRA schemes are helping to make SC/ST/OBC and women financially empowered,” he said.

Modi urges BJP workers to work tirelessly for members of SC/ST/OBC

In his address to BJP workers of belonging to SC/ST/OBCs category, Narendra Modi urged them to work tirelessly for the welfare of deprived and women.

“Go to the homes of the SC/ST/OBC and minority members of the society and communicate the policies of the government to them. Convey to them that the BJP is working towards the betterment of one and all,” he said.

I appeal you to visit homes of SC/ST, OBC and minorities and assure them that BJP will work for their welfare: PM Shri @narendramodi Watch at https://t.co/2dkvCSb8QF Dial 9345014501 to listen LIVE #BJP4InclusiveVikasa pic.twitter.com/ISYP3BY8lc

— BJP LIVE (@BJPLive) May 10, 2018

Modi speaks on BR Ambedkar’s dream of India

Hailing BR Ambedkar’s contribution, Narendra Modi said, “BR Ambedkar had a dream of India as a country which takes each and every person forward.”

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar dreamt of India as a country which takes each and every person forward: PM @narendramodi Watch at https://t.co/OPU4vTtzz8 Dial 9345014501 to listen LIVE #BJP4InclusiveVikasa pic.twitter.com/naEDOTpAmh

— BJP LIVE (@BJPLive) May 10, 2018

‘Congress has no room in its heart for Dalits and OBCs’

Lashing out at the Congress, Narendra Modi said, “Congress has no room in it’s heart for Dalits and those belonging to the backward classes. Congress also has no respect for BR Ambedkar. I urge Congress to tell one work that it has done to honour Ambedkar’s efforts.”

“BJP has always fought to ensure Ambedkar’s gets due respect,” he added.

Modi hails BR Ambedkar and Jyotirao’s Phule’s contributions

Addressing the SC/ST/OBC workers of the BJP in Karnataka, Narendra Modi, “Despite the presence of several communities and classes, in some way we’ll all unite. I have no doubt of it.”

Hailing social reformer Jyotirao Phule, he said, “Before Babasahab, Mahatma Phule spearheaded the movement to fight the atrocities on the backward classes.”

Narendra Modi addresses BJP’s SC/ST/OBC workers through his app

Addressing Karnataka BJP workers through his app, Narendra Modi said, “Today the most people from SC/ST/OBC are connected to the BJP. BJP believes in equality. Maximum number of SC/ST/OBC MPs are from the BJP. We believe in development for all”

“BJP has always been committed to he welfare of those belonging to the backward classes,” Modi said.

Roadshow and a press conference in Amit Shah’s schedule for the day

BJP chief Amit Shah will hold a road show in Badami constituency at 11.30 am and later address a press conference at the BJP media centre in Bengalury at 4 pm.

BJP National President Shri @AmitShah's roadshow on 10th May 2018 in Badami Constituency, Karnataka. Watch at https://t.co/vpP0MInUi4 pic.twitter.com/OEuwO3vxaq

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2018

23 BJP leaders to hold roadshows today

On the last day of campaigning, 23 leaders from the BJP, including Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Ananth Kumar, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Prakash Javadekar are scheduled to hold megaroad shows in different parts of Karnataka on Thursday.

BJP chief ministers from Shivraj Singh and Raman Singh will also hold roadshows in the state.

On the last day of campaigning for #KarnatakaElection2018 23 party leaders, including Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Ananth Kumar, Piyush Goyal & Dharmendra Pradhan, to hold mega road shows in different parts of Karnataka today. pic.twitter.com/iwCtCroGic

— ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2018

Updates begin for 10 May, Thursday

Congress keeps questioning what Modi govt has done: Modi

“We have approved stringent punishments for those who commit crimes against women. Such crimes cannot be tolerated. Heinous crimes are not a political issue, I wish the Congress understood this,” says Narendra Modi.

Congress should tell people what they have done for Karnataka, says Modi

Did the Congress government in Karnataka tell people what they have done in the last five years? They just keep saying - What did Modi do? They must be answerable. They should tell people what they have done for Karnataka : PM @narendramodi #BJP4BetterKarnataka pic.twitter.com/EVR23pWYhh

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2018

Congress thinks that the prime minister’s seat is reserved for just one dynasty, says Modi

The newly elected Congress president has pre-announced that he will become the prime minister of the country in 2019. They think that the prime minister's seat is reserved for just one dynasty : PM Modi #BJP4BetterKarnataka pic.twitter.com/vHM6H7zCCE

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2018

Congress has always worked for their own family: Modi

Narendra Modi says the Congress has always worked for their own goodwill, for their own family. Their actions have deteriorated the condition of the country. He goes onto say, “This is a democracy and you cannot say one fine day that you are going to be the prime minister of the country, the public will decide that.” 

“When Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Batukeshwar Dutt, Veer Savarkar, greats like them were jailed fighting for the country’s independence, did any Congress leader went to meet them? But the Congress leaders go and meet the corrupt who have been jailed,” adds Modi.

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi visits the memorial of Kannada actor Dr Rajkumar in Bengaluru

Karnataka: Congress President Rahul Gandhi visited the memorial of Kannada actor Dr Rajkumar in Bengaluru. pic.twitter.com/VDhKgfczMd

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

Congress will be defeated soon, Modi tells Bidar people

Narendra Modi addresses public meeting in Bidar, says the affection of people for the BJP across Karnataka is a clear indication that Congress party will be defeated in these elections.

Watch: Narendra Modi to address rally in Bidar

LIVE : PM Modi addresses public meeting in Bidar, Karnataka. #BJP4BetterKarnataka https://t.co/4eHLhCrFIy

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2018

Watch Amit Shah’s roadshow in Shanthinagar constituency, Bengaluru

Shri @AmitShah's roadshow in Shanthinagar constituency, Bengaluru. #HarrisBaigGeorgeMuktaBluru https://t.co/nOqSJCgJKI

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2018

1.5 lakh security personnel, including 50,000 from paramilitary forces, to be deployed for polls

Nearly 1.5 lakh security personnel, including more than 50,000 from the central paramilitary forces, will be deployed during the Assembly elections in Karnataka on 12 May to ensure free and fair polls, officials said on Wednesday. The Union home ministry has earmarked around 520 companies drawn from various paramilitary forces like the CRPF, BSF and ITBP to keep strict vigil and ensure peace during the polling process in the southern state. ( Read more here )

Elections to Rajrajeshwari constituency must be countermanded: Smriti Irani

Voter IDs are proof of voter confidence & to reinstate that, elections to Rajarajeshwari constituency must be countermanded & we've put forward this demand to EC: Smriti Irani after BJP delegation met EC officials over voter IDs found at a flat in Jalahalli #KarnatakaElection pic.twitter.com/GjRE4Zbm1G

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

Have appealed to EC to countermand the election in Rajrajeshwari seat: BJP delegation

“We have appealed to the Election Commission to countermand the election in the Rajrajeshwari seat,” said Meenakshi Lekhi.

The BJP delegation has also asked the Election Commission to find out whether such ‘scams’ are found in other areas in Karnataka.

Visuals of Amit Shah’s road show in Bengaluru

BJP President Amit Shah's road show in Bengaluru. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/9nGVWA92LZ

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

Around 1.5 lakh security personnel to be deployed during Karnataka polls

Nearly 1.5 lakh security personnel, including more than 50,000 from the central paramilitary forces, will be deployed during the Assembly elections in Karnataka on 12 May to ensure free and fair polls, officials said.

The Union Home Ministry has earmarked around 520 companies drawn from various paramilitary forces like the CRPF, BSF and ITBP to keep strict vigil and ensure peace during the polling process in the southern state.

The central security personnel will assist the nearly a lakh strong Karnataka Police, who will be deployed in every nook and corner of the state during the single-phase polling, a home ministry official said. — PTI

BJP delegation meets Election Commission over seized voter ID cards

#Visuals: A BJP delegation comprising Union Ministers Smriti Irani, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, JP Nadda, Dharmendra Pradhan & SS Ahluwalia reach Election commission over the issue of 9,746 voter identity cards found in bundles in a Bengaluru flat. #KarnatakaElection2018 pic.twitter.com/kXBGySUIOP

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

Over 6,000 voter application acknowledgement receipts found: Karnataka CEO

“Three malfunctioning copier machines, five laptops including one broken laptop, nine mobiles, apart from other documents like PAN cards, ATM cards, driving licenses, etc were also found in the flat,” said Karnataka CEO Sanjiv Kumar.

“There were 6,342 voter application acknowledgement receipts were also found. 20,700 acknowledgement receipts which do not carry seals were also found,” he also said.

Watch: No evidence that any of them (the voter ID cards) are bogus or concocted, says Karnataka CEO

#VoterIDScandal -- We have seized 9896 cards. According to preliminary observation they appear to be original: Sanjiv Kumar, CEO, Karnataka. #BattleForKarnataka pic.twitter.com/JM34Vw1E6s

— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 9, 2018

Voter ID cards seized were genuine: EC

“The case is under observation….The cards were collected for a reason,” Sanjiv Kumar, CEO, Karnataka told reporters. “We have seized 9,896 cards,” he added.

Kumar also said that the voter ID cards seized were genuine.

Congress sure of its defeat in Karnataka: Modi

“Congress is now sure of its defeat in Karnataka. That’s why their campaigning haws reduced,” said Narendra Modi. “Now, the Congress has resorted to such measures which insult democracy. Today, there were bundles of fake voter ID cards found,” he said.

“Why were these fake voter IDs needed? This must not be limited to just one place. Congress must have engaged in this scam throughout Karnataka,” Modi said.

“A raid was conducted in the resort in which the Karnataka chief minister was staying. Lakhs of rupees were found there,” he added.

Karnataka CM keeps talking about Modi: PM

“I had thought that the Congress government in Karnataka would have tried highlighting its work in the campaigning so far,” said Narendra Modi. “In the entire election campaign, they have talked of nothing apart from Modi,” he added.

“Now this Modi has gone into their hearts to such an extent that the Karnataka chief minister kept talking about Narendra Modi. This shows there truly is a God. Because He forced him to speak the truth,” he said.

“I ask the people of Belagavi to be alert. Convince other people to vote and vote for the BJP,” Modi said.

Congress removed from hearts of people: Modi

“Congress party is shrinking. It has been removed from every corner from India,” said the prime minister in Belagavi. “But the Congress does not know that it has also been removed from the hearts of the people,” he added.

Narendra Modi addresses public meeting in Belagavi

BJP delegation comprising Smriti Irani, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, JP Nadda and Dharmendra Pradhan to meet EC at 6 pm over ‘fake’ voter IDs: ANI

We will provide Karnataka a clean government: Amit Shah

#WATCH: BJP President Amit Shah says 'We would like to assure that we will provide a clean govt, one which focuses on development, in Karnataka'. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/Zgp3CQfMg0

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

Rahul Gandhi offers prayers at Bengaluru temple

Karnataka: Congress President offered prayers at Anjaneya Swamy Temple in Bengaluru. pic.twitter.com/gOpLDVAEEE

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

BJP accuses Congress of derailing free and fair polls

A day after 9,746 voter ID cards were seized from a flat in Rajarajeshwari Nagar Assembly constituency in Karnataka, the BJP on Wednesday accused the Congress of hatching a conspiracy to “derail” free and fair polls and demanded that voting be postponed in the assembly segment in Bengaluru Urban district.

“Five laptops, scanners and lamination machines and many voter ID cards were burnt before police reached the spot. Still they recovered around 1 lakh counterfoils of Form-6. This shows a deep conspiracy to derail free and fair election,” Union HRD Minister and party’s in-charge for Karnataka polls Prakash Javadekar told the media.

IANS

BJP distances itself from Manjula Nanjamari

BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra has denied the charges made by the Congress. He has been quoted by ANI as saying that Manjula Nanjamari, the owner of the flat where fake voter IDs were found, was a corporator of the BJP earlier but has had no connection with the party for the past 15 years.

‘Democracy being subverted’

Congress’ Randeep Surjewala has said that the incident shows that democracy is being subverted and asked, “Will Narendra Modi apologise?”

Role of Modi, other BJP leaders should be probed: Congress

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala has said in a press conference, “The owners of the premises (where fake voter ID cards were found) say that they are BJP leaders.”

He further said, “Should the role of Narendra Modi and other top BJP leaders not be probed?”

“Congress should be ashamed of itself”: Amit Shah

Congress Party should be ashamed of themselves! Everything about their party is fake- their tears for the poor, their claims of development, their commitment to social justice.

Now the Congress is using fake voter IDs to create fictitious voters and rig the 2018 Karnataka polls.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 9, 2018

Manjula should be arrested: Prakash Javadekar

“She (Manjula) was our corporator 20 years back. That doesn’t mean anything…She should be arrested,” said Union minister Prakash Javadekar.

Congress trying to win Assembly polls on the basis of bogus voter cards: Amit Shah

As campaigning in the poll-bound #Karnataka entered its last leg, #BJP President #AmitShah alleged that #Congress party was trying to win the state assembly election on the basis of bogus voter cards and money#KarnatakaElections2018

Read @ANI story | https://t.co/6z3m4VdfFB pic.twitter.com/IoxEP4Sljg

— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) May 9, 2018

Congress’ habit of operating on deals exposed: Sambit Patra

“I firmly believe none other than Siddaramaiah and Rahul Gandhi as to why the Congress, knowing they are going to be defeated in the Karnataka election, took this wrong step,” BJP’s Sambit Patra said as he addressed the press conference.

“Two to three people have already been arrested. The media channels are showing this is no small operation. This looks like the operation by mafia,” Patra further said.

“The fact that Congress operates on deals has been exposed,” he added.

Congress will get absolute majority in Karnataka: Veerappa Moily

Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily said his party would retain power in Karnataka with absolute majority, but was non-committal on whether Siddaramaiah would continue as the chief minister.

The former union minister also ruled himself out of the race for chief ministership, and slammed the BJP for raking up the issue of UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s Italian origin.

“Congress has excelled in performance in the last five years, delivered on all pre-poll promises, and there is no anti-incumbency factor against it,” Moily told PTI in a telephonic interview.

“We will win with absolute majority. We already have 137 MLAs (in the 224-member Assembly), including seven who have come from JDS and another six or seven independents. We will easily get 147 to 150 (seats in the May 12 Assembly polls),” he said.

On whether Siddaramaiah would then continue as the chief minister, Moily gave a guarded reply.

“Congress President Rahul Gandhi and the party high command have made it clear that the party will fight the elections under Siddaramaiah’s leadership,” Moily said, adding that it was for the people and the media to draw inferences. — PTI

Congress supports IT development in Bengaluru when it was in power at centre, says Rahul Gandhi

Speaking at Shivaji Nagar, Congress president Rahul Gandhi lashed out at Narendra Modi for questioning development under Congress rule in India. “Was Bengaluru not the IT hub before Narendra Modi came to power? But Modi keeps saying that no progress took place in 70 years,” he said.

He asserted that the UPA government supported the development of IT in Bengaluru. “When Congress was in power at the centre, we gave Bengaluru Rs 10,000 crore for development. But Modi government has given only Rs 550 crores to Bengaluru. It’s a shame,” he said.

Not a Congress worker, says Manjula Nanjamari

At the centre of a controversy, Manjula Nanjamari — owner of Bengaluru flat from where fake voter IDs were seized — denied that she was a Congress worker. “From 1997-2002 I was a corporator, and BJP helped me win. I was just a house wife and BJP supported me, so I consider myself under their sharan(shadow). I am not a Congress person,will never be,” she was quoted as saying by ANI .

After raids, BS Yeddyurappa urges chief election officer to take action

Using the hashtag ‘CongRigsElection’, BJP chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa blamed the Congress for the fake voter ID row in Karnataka, “It is a scary situation in Karnataka. Rattled Congress prints fake voter ID Cards. I appeal Karnataka chief election officer to take stringent action against the culprits involved. Deterrent action should prevent others from resorting to similar malpractices,” he said in a tweet.

It is a scary situation in Karnataka. Rattled Congress prints fake Voter ID Cards. I appeal @ceo_karnataka to take stringent action against the culprits involved. Deterrent action should prevent others from resorting to similar malpractices.#CongRigsElection

— B.S.Yediyurappa (@BSYBJP) May 9, 2018

‘Congress attempting to rig polls’

In Chikmaglur, Narendra Modi charged the Congress with attempting to rig the polls. “They have created fake voter IDs to massively rig the Karnataka election. The people of Karnataka should resolve never to forgive such a party and come out to vote in massive numbers to uproot it and its ecosystem. Congress is indulging in all kinds of malpractices over the fear of a crushing defeat.”

Modi also lashed out at Siddaramaiah, saying that the Income Tax raided a resort in Badami a day after the chief minister finished his stay. Earlier on Wednesday, Siddaramaiah had claimed that the raid was a BJP conspiracy against him.

Income Tax department conducted raids in Badami. Huge stashes of cash and jewellery were seized. Such acts of Congress are defaming Badami and entire Karnataka : PM @narendramodi #BJP4BetterKarnataka pic.twitter.com/o5Yg7jwLCw

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2018

‘Congress only wants to remain in power’

Narendra Modi accused the Congress of being power hungry. “In 1978, Indira ji came here, took your votes but never cared for people of this region. Congress never thought about welfare of people of Chikmagalur. Sonia ji too contested from Bellari, but what happened to promises made in Ballari,” he said.

Congress only wants to remain in power. In 1978, Indira ji came here, took your votes but never cared for people of this region. Congress never thought about welfare of people of Chikmagalur. Sonia Ji too contested from Bellari, but what happened to promises made in Bellari : PM pic.twitter.com/fBtC5aZFVn

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 9, 2018

Rahul Gandhi thinks PM’s seat is only reserved for one family, says Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi targetted Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Chikmagalur. “The ’naamdaar’ of Congress keeps getting promoted even if he doesn’t do anything. He was made general secretary of the party in 2007. He said he’ll make a young team and bring new ideas. It has been 11 years and things are still how they used to be,” he said.

“Rahul Gandhi thinks that the prime minister’s seat is reserved for just one family. He thinks that the seat is his right. Congress barely got 40 seats in the Parliament. His ego is such that he comes to Karnataka and says that he will become the prime minister in 2019,” Modi added.

Siddaramaiah govt practicing divisive politics, says Narendra Modi

In Chikmagalur, Narendra Modi accused the Siddaramaiah government of practicing divisive politics. Exuding confidence in the BJP, Modi said, “Congress fears defeat in these elections. They are spreading lies that there would be a hung assembly in Karnataka.”

NDA govt’s remote control is with RSS, says Anand Sharma

Reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “remote control with Sonia Gandhi” jibe at the Congress, Anand Sharma said, “Everybody knows who has the remote control in this government.” He claimed that there are only two people running the governmen — Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah. “Their remote control is in Nagpur at the RSS’ office,” he told reporters in Delhi. 

Earlier on Wednesday, Modi had said at a rally: “During the UPA government, there was one prime minister and one remote control. In the NDA Government, our remote control and the high command are the 125 crore people of India.”

BJP’s strategy is to stall election process, says Congress

Speaking to reporters, Congress leader Anand Sharma said that the BJP’s strategy is to stall the election process because the “mandate in Karnataka is against the BJP government”. “The prime minister has no credibility. He is using the kind of language which does not behoove him,” he said. 

He said that the Election Commission listened to the concerns of the Congress leaders and has promised to take strict action and probe the role of all agencies involved.

Congress submits memorandum to EC about BJP’s ‘attempt to subvert pre-election process’

After a Congress delegation met Election Commission officials in Delhi, senior leader Anand Sharma said, “We have submitted the detailed memorandum about malpractices of BJP and concerted attempt by the party at the Centre to subvert the pre-election process, target Congress, and conduct midnight raids. Last night, the raids were stage managed by BJP.”

After polls, Siddaramaiah will neither be CM nor an MLA: JD(S)’ HD Kumaraswamy

In the run-up to the Karnataka Assembly polls, former chief minister and state president of Janata Dal (Secular) HD Kumaraswamy asserts he will not play the kingmaker in case of a hung verdict, but will emerge as the king himself. Unfazed by scathing attacks against the JD(S) from both Congress and the BJP, the 58-year-old leader says there will not be a post-poll tie-up with any of the two national political parties. The chief ministerial candidate believes his party is poised to cross the 113-mark in the 224-member Assembly.

In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Kumaraswamy explains why he thinks the party will sweep over the entire state on its own.

Voter IDs case is clear case of Congress conspiracy, says BJP

Addressing a press conference, Union minister Prakash Javadekar said, **"**Congress is blatantly lying (about BJP’s connection with the voter IDs found in a Bengaluru apartment). Our worker Rakesh is the whistleblower, but Manjula and her son are not our party workers." He asserted that Manjula, who is the flat owner where the IDs were seized from, should be arrested.

“Now people want to save Congress by accusing BJP. It’s a clear case of Congress conspiracy. Their philosophy is if you don’t get real voters, get fake voters,” Javadekar said.

Anand Sharma-led Congress delegation arrives at EC office in Delhi over ‘fake’ voter IDs recovered in Bengaluru, reports CNN-News18

Anand Sharma and Motilal Vora will lead Congress delegation to meet Election Commission over voter IDs founds in Bengaluru, reports ANI .

Visuals from Rahul Gandhi’s visit to garment factory in Hosur

​

Before interacting with women factory workers, Congress president Rahul Gandhi visited a creative garment factory in Hosur.

Congress President @RahulGandhi visits Creative Garment Factory in Krishna Nagar Industrial Area, Hosur Main Road. #JanaAashirwadaYatre #CongressMathomme pic.twitter.com/d6tyozYWyU

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 9, 2018

Rahul Gandhi interacts with women factory workers in Bengaluru

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is interacting with women factory workers in Bengaluru. Responding to a question on the closure of factories which force the workers to become unemployed, Rahul said, “90 percent of money in the banks goes to the 10-15 people in India. How many people did Nirav Modi employ? He didn’t employ anyone, but the banks gave him Rs 33,000 crore to him. If just Rs 100 crore was given to this factory, atleast a thousand would’ve been employed because of him.”

BJP will form govt with absolute majority, says Amit Shah

Addressing a public meeting in Tumkur, BJP national president Amit Shah said, “​BJP is getting immense support in Karnataka. BJP will form government with absolute majority in the state.”

Unaccounted cash of over Rs 8 lakh found in BJP district president’s residence, reports India Today

Narendra Modi urges attendees to spread the word about promises in BJP’s manifesto

“Will you go to each house and inform voters about BJP’s plans for the poor, needy, and the downtrodden? Will you help BJP form the government? Will you help for BS Yeddyurappa’s government in Karnataka,” Narendra Modi asked the gathering in Bangarapet.

Rahul Gandhi holds roadshow in Basavanagudi

Congress President Rahul Gandhi holds roadshow in Bengaluru's Basavanagudi. #KarnatakaElection2018 pic.twitter.com/0dA4cFG98y

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

‘Congress’ strategy is speaking only lies’

“Since the time these new ’naamdaars’ have entered Congress, they have picked a new strategy of uttering lies,” Narendra Modi said. “But now the public has various ways to find out the truth. If that wasn’t the case, the Congress wouldn’t have been limited to PPP — Punjab, Puducherry and Parivar Congress,” he added.

He hit out at the Congress for accusing the BJP of attempting to weaken the SC/ST Act. “But the truth is that we have empowered those belonging to the SC/ST category,” Modi said.

Rahul Gandhi offers prayers at Dodda Ganapathi temple

Congress President Rahul Gandhi offers prayers at Dodda Ganapathi temple in Bengaluru's Basavanagudi pic.twitter.com/BYmiXnmlfG

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

‘Congress only interested in deals’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Congress is interested in nothing but “deals”. “These are not my words. It’s Congress MP and former Karnataka chief minister Veerappa  Moily who said this. When tickets were being ‘sold’, he said that Congress will have to solve their ‘money problem’ and also blamed PWD minister for the deal-making,” he said.

‘Rahul aspiration of becoming prime minister is a sign of arrogance’

In Bangarapet, Narendra Modi lashed out at Rahul Gandhi over his aspiration to become the prime minister. “On Tuesday, someone (Rahul Gandhi) made an important declaration. He said that he is going to be the prime minister in 2019. He came like those bullies, barging his way ahead when there are others who have many years of experience. How can someone just declare himself as the prime minister? This is simply nothing but arrogance,” he said.

“There are big meetings being held to oust Narendra Modi. How will the big leaders who attend these meetings react to this sudden announcement by one ’naamdaar’, Modi said.

‘Those born with golden spoons will never understand aspirations of poor’

When I am making toilets at such a large scale, am I making them for the rich? No, it is only for the poor. Those born with golden spoons will never understand the aspirations of the poor : PM @narendramodi #BJP4BetterKarnataka pic.twitter.com/wsYtm1emjD

— BJP LIVE (@BJPLive) May 9, 2018

Narendra Modi on ‘six evils of Congress’

There are the six evils that the Congress has brought on the nation – Congress culture – Communalism, Casteism, Crime, Corruption, Contractor system. These 6 C’s are destroying that future of Karnataka," Narendra Modi said in Bangarapet. 

“During the UPA government, there was one prime minister and one remote control. In the NDA Government, our remote control and the high command are the 125 crore people of India,” he added.

Election will decide fate of Karnataka and its youth, says Narendra Modi in Bangarapet

Speaking in Bangarapet, Narendra Modi said, “This election is not just about who becomes or does not become an MLA. It is an election to decide the fate of Karnataka and its youth.”

Modi said that the entire country has deeply understood the mannerisms of the Congress. “Wherever there was an election in India, Congress (lost). What will happen on 15 May,” he said.

‘Rakesh has no connection with Manjula Nanjamari’s flat which was raided’

The son of Manjula Nanjamari — in whose flat over 9,000 voter IDs were found — has reacted to the allegations surrounding the flat tenant and Manjula being BJP leaders. “I am the only son of Manjula Nanjamari. Rakesh is my mother’s nephew’s son and he has got no connections with the flat in Park View apartment,” Manjula’s son Sridhar was quoted as saying by ANI .

Voter IDs seized in Bengaluru: BJP accuses Congress of using ‘anti-democratic’ means 

The BJP claimed on Twitter that “close to 20,000” fake voters IDs were recovered from Congress’ Raja Rajeshwari Nagar constituency candidate.

“Anti democratic means of Congress to win loosing elections is nothing new. They are in practice right from Indira Gandhi’s period,” it said in a tweet. On Tuesday, the Election Commission confirmed that it seized over 9,000 voter identity cards from a flat in Jalahalli of west Bengaluru.

Close to 20,000 fake Voters ID card recovered from @INCIndia's Raja Rajeshwari Nagar constituency candidate Muniratna.

Anti democratic means of Congress to win loosing elections is nothing new. They are in practice right from Indira Gandhi's period! pic.twitter.com/RkgEmPXdIu

— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 8, 2018

Let EC probe fake voter ID case, says Siddaramaiah 

Alleging BJP’s role in the voter IDs seized from a flat in Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that the was first time he was witnessing a raid of this kind. “Congress is constantly under surveillance of BJP government. This is for the first time, these raids are being conducted at the time of elections, he told reporters on Wednesday.

He added that he did not have anything to say about the voter ID raids, saying, “It is the Election Commission’s job to probe.”

Election Commission seizes printers from apartment from where voters ids were seized on Tuesday

Bengaluru: Election Commission officials seize printers from Flat No. 115 at SLV Park View Apartment in Jalahalli area. 9,746 voter ID cards were found from the apartment last night. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/HUxTYm3heV

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

BJP to meet Election Commission at 10.30 am over voter IDs recovered from Bengaluru, reports CNN-News18

Congress vs BJP ’no contest’, says Rahul Gandhi

In Karnataka, Congress Vs BJP is a "no contest" as this graphic shows. pic.twitter.com/uwpOd4Vz3I

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 9, 2018

Rahul Gandhi to visit Dodda Ganapathi temple, garment factory today

Apart from addressing three rallies today, Congress president Rahul Gandhi will visit two temples and a garment factory on Wednesday. He will begin his day by visiting the Dodda Ganapathi temple in Basavagudi at 10 am, and then visit a garment factory in Krishna Nagar Industrial Area at 11.30 am where he will interact with women workers. Later, he will visit Shivaji  Nagar, BEML Circle, and Hebbal to address corner meetings.

Day - 3 Itinerary of Congress President Shri @RahulGandhi's visit to Karnataka where he will be holding rallies, interactions & meetings in Bengaluru District. #CongressMathomme pic.twitter.com/3IDSyVEmOu

— Karnataka Congress (@INCKarnataka) May 9, 2018

Congress delegation to meet Election Commission officials at 10 am in New Delhi over voter IDs recovered from Bengaluru, reports CNN-News18

9,746 voter IDs seized: Congress alleges BJP worker owned flat, Prakash Javadekar hits back

On Tuesday, 9,746 voter IDs were seized from an apartment in the name of one Manjula Nanjamuri. While Congress communications in-charge Randeep S Surjewala clalimed that she is a BJP leader, Union minister Prakash Javadekar denied the charges alleging that she was instead a Congress worker.

“Manjula Nanjamuri has nothing to do with BJP. She left BJP six years ago. Manjula is a Congress person now,” ANI quoted Javadekar as saying.

Who is Manjula Nanjamuri? (owner of the flat No. 115) She is a BJP leader & ex-corporator. Who did she rent this house to? To Rakesh, who is Manjula's son. He contested the corporation election on a BJP ticket in 2015 & lost to the Congress: Randeep Surjewala, Congress pic.twitter.com/a5uIbosOxH

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2018

Manjula Nanjamuri has nothing to do with BJP. She left BJP six years ago. Manjula is a Congress person now. They just want to blame BJP without any substance. We have proof of various things, which we will present before the EC: Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister. pic.twitter.com/ApXbRoDvyM

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2018

Visuals from Jalahalli area from where 9,746 voter ID cards were seized on Tuesday

Bengaluru: #Visuals from Flat No. 115 at SLV Park View Apartment in Jalahalli area from where 9,746 voter ID cards were found. Returning Officer along with other election commission officials present at the flat #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/PxOeaUdvS3

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018

Amit Shah to hold five roadshows today

BJP national president Amit Shah is scheduled to address one public meeting and hold five roadshows on Wednesday. He will first address a rally in Tumkur at 10.30 am, and later hold roadshows in Kunigal, Shanthinagar, Shivajinagar, Sarvagna Nagar, and Mahadevapura constutuencies.

Schedule of BJP National President Shri @AmitShah's public programs on 9 May 2018 in Karnataka. Watch at https://t.co/6OZR86UwRR pic.twitter.com/c41iUMfQCu

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 8, 2018

Narendra Modi’s schedule for the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend four public meetings in Karnataka on Wednesday. He will first address a rally at 10.30 am in Bangarapet, then head to Chikmagalur to address another gathering at 1.30 pm. He will attend a public meeting in Belagavi at 4.30 pm, and finally wrap up his day by addressing a rally in Bidar at 7.30 pm.

PM Shri @narendramodi will address four rallies on 9th May 2018 in Karnataka. Watch at https://t.co/vpP0MInUi4. You may dial 9345014501 to listen LIVE. pic.twitter.com/Xv33NuZGKm

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 8, 2018

Updates begin for 9 May, Wednesday

Congress has handed over Bengaluru to notorious trio

“II do not understand why the CM dislikes Bengaluru. He has handed over Bengaluru to an infamous trio- and we all know this trio- we also know they have been given charge of this city due to vote bank politics. This trio excels in all the wrong things,” Modi said.

Narendra Modi addresses rally in Bengaluru

​

At the start of his speech, Modi said that he knows that the love of the people is such that language is no barrier. However, since the speeches are broadcast in villages as well, he wants to ensure that the last man also understands his words.

Congress ministers who should have helped our farmers were in Delhi playing divisive politics: Modi

“When Karnataka was suffering from a drought, Congress ministers who should have helped our farmers were in Delhi playing divisive politics,” Modi said, slamming the Opposition during a rally in Vijayapura.

“When people of Karnataka were going through tough times, irrigation minister, education minister and mining minister were busy conspiring to divide the society in an attempt to appease their masters in Delhi,” he added. 

When people of Karnataka were going through tough times, irrigation minister, education minister and mining minister were busy conspiring to divide the society in an attempt to appease their masters in Delhi : PM Modi #KarundalliModiHawa pic.twitter.com/jaVYoOT98E

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 8, 2018

Smriti Irani slams Rahul Gandhi for saying he will become PM in 2019, says Congress chief only ’thinks about himself’

“Narendra Modi ji and Amit Shah are worried about future of people of this country, while Rahul ji thinks about himself,” Union minister Smriti Irani said to _ ANI . “_He said if his party comes to power he’ll be the prime minister in 2019. A person who doesn’t trust his own leadership and ability, how can he expect people to trust him?” she added. 

Her comments were in reaction to Rahul’s affirmation for becoming the prime minister in 2019. “Yes why not,” the Congress president said after he was asked if he can be prime minister in 2019 if Congress is the single largest party.

It was under Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s govt that Lord Basaveshwara’s first statue was installed in the parliament: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a rally in Vijayapura on Tuesday. At the rally, he said that Lord Basaveshwara’s message was against divisions of caste and community but the state government had got into a habit of working against his message and of forgetting his words. The BJP’s official Twitter account shared this snippet from his rally. 

“Bhagwan Basaveshwara conveyed that everyone should be taken along. This Congress government is dividing communities, castes, voters… divide and rule, pit one against the other. They want to save their chair. But Congress leaders do not know this is the land of Bhagwan Basaveshwara. It is not going to be divided into communities and will not accept division among brothers. They will remove the Congress but will not allow poison of casteism,” Modi said. He also reiterated that it was under former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government that Lord Basaveshwara’s first statue was installed in the Parliament.

It was under A B Vajpayee's govt that Lord Basaveshwara's first statue was installed in the parliament. The Congress party which was in power for five decades before that did not bother to do this. Now, our govt is spreading his teachings across the world : PM #KarundalliModiHawa pic.twitter.com/RYAdBgMhzY

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 8, 2018

Congress leaders saying Sonia’s Karnataka visit can save deposits: Modi’s barb at Sonia Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday took a dig at the Congress, claiming that its leaders were now saying that if former party chief Sonia Gandhi canvasses in the state, it can at least save the security deposits of Congress candidates.

Modi said he had on Monday watched an interview of a Congress leader who said that the son (Congress President Rahul Gandhi) “will not be able to do anything”. 

“If you bring the mother (Sonia) to Karnataka and she does something, then maybe the deposits can be saved. This is what Congress leaders have started speaking,” Modi said at a rally.

In fervour to achieve Congress-mukt Bharat, Modi can’t stand any opposition, criticism: Sonia

“Modi ji par Congress mukt bharat ka junoon hai, unhe iska bhoot laga hai, Congress mukt bharat to chhoriye, vo apne saamne kisi ko bardaash nahi kar sakte," Sonia said. 

(Modiji is fervently talking about Congress-mukt Bharat. But he is so focused on it that he cannot stand any sort of opposition against him”, Sonia Gandhi said.

Narendra Modi hell bent on destroying good work of Congress

“Narendra Modi ji has done only one work since he came to power. He is hell bent on finishing every good work done by the Congress party ober the years. We have worked tirelessly for the poor. We started Mahatma Gandhi NREGA scheme which was mocket at by the BJP and by Modi Ji at the time. He is systematically ending every welfare scheme,” Sonia said.

Narendra Modi’s speeches made of empty promises, lies; laced with hate, says Sonia Gandhi

Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s most talked about strengthe, his oratory skills, Sonia Gandhi said that Modi preads lies and distorts history wherever he goes. “He uses the names of heroes from our history for his political motives. He comes here and instead of talking about what has he done, answering questions, he spreads hatred and leaves,” Sonia said.

Narendra Modi ace orator, but selectively quiet on issues that matter, says Sonia

“Narendra Modi is proud of the fact that he is a very good orator, I agree with this. He speaks like an actor. I’ll be happy if his speeches can end hunger of the country but speeches cannot fill empty stomachs, food is needed for that. It cannot empower women or heal the sick either, you need a strong determination and noble intent for that,” Sonia said. 

She claimed that nobody would have seen a prime minister who talks so much but is always quiet on issues that matter. “I ask him, what has he done? What has he doen for the farmers, for the poors, for the middle class,” Sonia asked.

BJP meted out differential treatment to Karnataka, insulted state by refusing to meet Siddaramaiah

“You must know that the central government is working in a biased manner when it comes to Karnataka. Farmers of Karnataka have been suffering due to drought, your CM Siddaramaiah wanted to meet PM over this issues but he refused. By doing this he has insulted not only the farmers but also the state of Karnataka. I want to ask him, is this his ‘sabka sath sabka vikas’,” Sonia said.

Congress made Karnataka Number 1 state: Sonia Gandhi

“Congress has worked for development of Karnataka. Congress made Karnataka country’s number one state and started numerous scheme for people: Sonia Gandhi in Bijapur, We even started Indira canteen where even the poorest of poor can have a full meal in just 10 years,” Sonia said.

Sonia Gandhi hits campaign trail, addresses rally in Vijayapura 

Sonia Gandhi addressed a election rally in Vijayapur in Karnataka to seek votes for her party. She started off her speech by praising the culture of the state, while adding that Vijayapura was considered to be an amalgamation of cultures.

Rahul Gandhi addresses rally in Tiptur

​

Rahul Gandhi is holding a corner meeting at Titpur in Karnataka. Lauding the Congress government in the state, he said, “We built the world’s largest solar park and will continue to put Pavagada on the world map. I also promise to fight to get the groundnut farmers the right MSP for their produce.”

Modi ends speech with chants of ‘BJP gelli si, sarkara badli si’

Those born with silver spoon don’t understand problems of poor

“When I had spoken about Swachh Bharat and building toilets from the Red Fort, the Naamdaars mocked me. Those who are born with a golden spoon, never understand the difficulties of poor. We are committed to serve the poor and would continue to do so,” Modi said.

Congress did nothing to protect women, says Modi

​

“These people have done nothing for the protection of women, whereas our government has brought in a strict to law to give death sentence to those who do such devilish deeds with our daughter,” Modi said. 

He also “congratulated Yeddyurappa” for promising to include a whopping 10,000 crore to further women empowerment.

‘Congress slept while female foeticide continued unabated’ 

“I will recount another sin of the Congress party for you. As you know, the sex ratio is unbalanced in a lot of districts in our country. As the trend to kill female fetus continued unabated, the Congress governments only snoozed. We ave started schemes so that this pit is filled and the number of females match the number of male children in our society,” Modi said.

Modi speaks on Swachch Bharata Abhiyan

“Two years ago, I mentioned Mallama in Mann ki Baat. A young girl from a village in Karnataka fought for construction of toilets. I’m proud that there are many girls like her who are supporting the Swachch Bharat movement,” Narendra Modi said in Koppal.

“Cleanliness is related to the dignity of a woman. Our women have to defecate in the open. They go outside before the sun rise and wait for the sun to set to go the next time,” he said. “When I had spoken about Swachh Bharat and building toilets from the Red Fort, the ’naamdaars’ mocked me. But how will the man born with a golden spoon in his mouth know the problems faced by our old mothers? We are poor people and only we understand this problem,” he added.

Narendra Modi addresses rally in Koppal, says BJP believes in ‘rashtra bhakti’

Speaking in Koppal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “We only have one mantra, ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas’. But on the other hand, there is a party that ruled for 60 years out of the 70 years of independence. But they only run and oust the government for their family.

“They can go to any extent for power. Their game is to plot brothers against each other,” he said.

Congress pursuing divide and rule policy: Modi​

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of pursuing the policy of “divide and rule”, and asserted the party would be uprooted from Karnataka in the Assembly elections.

Modi lashed out at the Siddaramaiah government over alleged corruption, saying there is not a single minister who is not facing allegations of financial wrongdoing.

“Congress believes in the policy of divide and rule… divide on the basis of caste and religion….make brothers fight among themselves But people of this land of Basaveshwara will not allow it to happen,” he told an election rally in Vijayapura.

PTI

With Vijayapura, Sonia Gandhi to address first rally in 2 years

Almost two years after abandoning her poll campaign midway in Varanasi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi will hit the campaign trail in Karnataka on Tuesday and address a public rally in Bijapur at 3 pm.

The choice of location for the rally shows careful consideration by the Congress, given the party’s long association with the town. Bijapur, or Vijayapura as it is officially known, is the district headquarters of the district of Bijapur, and has been a favourite for the Nehru-Gandhi family for generations.

Click here to read more

‘Choose Congress if you want a clean government’

Speaking in Pavagada, Congress president Rahul Gandhi attacked the JD(S) and BJP. He said that the ‘S’ in JD(S) stood for “Sangh Parivaar” and not “secular”. Vouching for Congress leaders, he said, “Siddaramaiah, state unit president G Parameshwara, and other Congress leaders have you in their hearts when they work. On the other hand, Yeddyurappa and Reddy brothers have all been behind bars. It is up to you to decide if you want a clean, corruption-free government.”

Rahul Gandhi targets Narendra Modi over unemployment

In Pavagada, Congress president Rahul Gandhi attacked Narendra Modi over his promise of providing 2 crore jobs to the youth every year. “Modi’s ministers agree that India is facing biggest job crisis under the NDA government,” he said.

“What Narendra Modi government couldn’t do at the Centre, Congress government was able to execute in Karnataka. In the next five years, the Congress government will provide 1 crore jobs to youth in state,” he added.

Rahul Gandhi addresses gathering in Pavagada

Speaking in Pavagada, Congress president Rahul Gandhi hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not helping in waiving farm loan. “You come to speak here, but when you gave nod for loan waiver, you did not add a single rupee from the central government,” he said. 

He also said that Dalits were being killed in BJP-ruled states but Narendra Modi has not uttered a word,

Rahul Gandhi offers floral tributes to Subhash Chandra Bose at Gauribidanur in Chikkaballapur

Image courtesy: Twitter@INCIndia

‘Congress has never been serious about women safety’

Narendra Modi accused the Congress of not being serious about the safety of women. “It is the NDA Government that has got a tough law that will ensure safety of women,” he said. He also hit out at the Congress for not letting the Centre pass the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha.

What Karnataka was hit by drought, Congress ministers were doing politics in Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi credited the saints, seers and mutts for playing a key role in making the society of Karnataka “progressive and harmonious”. “They have worked to remove human suffering,” he said.

He hit out at Congress over farmers’ woes in state. “What has the Congress done for the farmers of Karnataka? When the state was hit by drought, their ministers who were handling key portfolios were busy doing politics in Delhi,” Modi said in Vijayapura.

Narendra Modi only does ‘Mann ki Baat’, says Rahul Gandhi

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said that he only does ‘Mann ki Baat’ and does not hear what the nation has to say.

Pradhan Mantri sirf 'Mann ki Baat' karte hain, desh ki sunte nahi hain : Congress President Rahul Gandhi #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/vGr3PIjXYM

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2018

People have decided to punish Congress for five years, says Narendra Modi

“Those who are saying that there will be a hung Assembly in state, must step out of their AC rooms,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said as he began his address in Vijayapur.

“In the past 7-8 days, I have visited various places in Karnataka and I have seen that the people have decided not only to remove Congress, but has decided to give them the strictest of punishment for five years,” he said.

He claimed that the Congress leaders have stopped visiting homes to seek votes. “Now they are sitting in their offices, and thinking whom to accuse for their loss; should they blame EVMs or something else. They are planning ways to blame EVMs,” he said.

Siddaramaiah slams BJP over ‘2+1 formula’ charge

Dear People of Karnataka,

Let’s learn Maths with BJP:

Jailbird Yeddy = 1
Infamous Reddy Bros = 2+1
Sriramulu = 3+1
Katta Subramanya = 4+1
Krishnaiah Setty = 5+1
Hartal Halappa = 6+1
Renukacharya = 7+1

Should we hand over Karnataka to this gang?

Choose Wisely!#YeddyBeda pic.twitter.com/Q5T9glP0Kv

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 8, 2018

Rahul Gandhi addresses gathering in Chikkaballapur, questions Modi’s silence on Unnao rape

At his address in Chikkaballapur, Congress president Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his silence on Unnao rape case in which a BJP MLA is named accused.

A BJP MLA from Uttar Pradesh rapes a woman and PM Modi does not even utter a word: Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Chikkaballapur #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/uqJm0DxwUl

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2018

Amit Shah holds roadshow in Madikeri constituency

Watch BJP National President Shri @AmitShah's road show in Madikeri Constituency, Karnataka. Watch at https://t.co/2pyoCUZijJ #KarunadalliModiHawa pic.twitter.com/sTaiJ4bode

— BJP LIVE (@BJPLive) May 8, 2018

Three more days until vacation mode for Rahul Gandhi, says BJP

Reacting to Rahul Gandhi’s ‘speaker and airplane mode’ jibe at Narendra Modi, BJP said that the Congress president will go on vacation mode after the end of campaigning in Karnataka. “We know it is getting difficult here. Three more days and you can switch to your vacation mode,’ the party said in a tweet.

“Until then, like a good boy, spare us from these rumblings,” it added.

We know it is getting difficult here. Three more days and you can switch to your vacation mode.

Until then, like a good boy, spare us from these rumblings. https://t.co/iM9Yfnlhg2

— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 8, 2018

Yogi Adityanath offers prayers at Murudeshwar temple in Uttara Kannada district’s Murdeshwar

#Karnataka: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath offered prayers at Murudeshwar Temple in Uttara Kannada district's Murdeshwar. pic.twitter.com/uoQg7yZ9gv

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2018

BJP hits back at Rahul Gandhi for questioning BS Yeddyurappa’s candidature

Moments after Congress president Rahul Gandhi attacked the BJP for projecting BS Yeddyurappa as a chief ministerial candidate despite facing corruption charge, the saffron party hit back on Twitter. It said, “…you stand on much lower footing compared to BS Yeddyurappa. While the high court has acquitted all charges against Yeddyurappa, you still face a Rs 5000 crore corruption charge and are out on bail; yet you see pipedream of becoming the prime minister.”

This man just doesn't seem to get it.

We are also repeatedly telling you that you stand on much lower footing compared to BSY. While HC has acquitted all charges against @BSYBJP, you still face a 5000 cr corruption charge & are out on bail; yet you see pipedream of becoming PM! https://t.co/0hi186CRT7

— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 8, 2018

Rahul Gandhi speaks on becoming the prime minister in 2019

“Yes why not,” Congress president Rahul Gandhi was quoted as saying by ANI  after he was asked if he can be prime minister in 2019 if Congress is the single largest party.

BJP-RSS making ‘systematic attempt’ to capture all institutions: Rahul Gandhi

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Congress president Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of making a “systematic attempt” to capture all of India’s institution. “Congress and India is resisting this,” he said.

He said that one of the main issues with BJP is why the prime minister had chosen a corrupt person (BS Yeddyurappa) as a chief ministerial candidate. “People want to know why the prime minister has given eight tickets to Reddy brothers who have stolen Rs 35,000 crore,” he said.

He also attacked BJP chief Amit Shah, saying, “I don’t think he has lot of credibility. People in India forget that BJP president is a murder accused. A party that talks about honesty, decency has a person who has been accused of murder as its president.”

Rahul Gandhi interacts with Bengaluru residents at launch of Samruddha Bharat foundation

According to reports, Rahul Gandhi has inaugurated the Samruddha Bharat Foundation. He is currently interacting with the citizens of Bengaluru at the launch event. Samruddha Bharat is an independent platform launched to propagate “liberal, secular, and republican” values in India.

Congress President @RahulGandhi interacts with the citizens of Bengaluru at the launch of the Samruddha Bharat Foundation. #INC4Karnataka pic.twitter.com/bS8I28qB7e

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 8, 2018

Most pollsters divided between BJP victory and hung Assembly, C-Fore predicts Congress win

Ahead of the Karnataka Assembly election, opinion polls remain divided between predicting an outright BJP victory and a hung Assembly. Just one pollster has predicted a clear majority for Congress in the 224-member House.

The TV5 News poll, released on Monday evening, predicted the BJP would receive a clear majority with between 110 and 120 seats, the Congress could nab between 65 and 75 seats and the Janata Dal(Secular), which has tied up with the BSP, could net between 38 and 42 seats.

In April, a C-Fore opinion poll found the Congress comfortably ahead of BJP and JD(S), and predicted the grand old party could get a clear majority with 118 to 128 seats.

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BJP takes dig at Sonia Gandhi ahead of her Vijayapura address 

Taking a dig at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, BJP said on Twitter that “Ms Antonio Maino” will be in Karnataka on Tuesday to “save her last citadel from falling”. 

“Madam Maino, Karnataka needs no lessons from the person who was solely responsible for wasting India’s 10 precious years,” BJP Karnataka said in a tweet. “And to Congress, need to remind you of your ‘import’ jibe,” it added.

Today, Ms. Antonio Maino is here in K'taka to save her last citadel from falling!

Madam Maino, K'taka needs no lessons from the person who was solely responsible for wasting India's 10 precious years.

And to Congress, need to remind you of your 'import' jibe? https://t.co/7NmhjuoMOM

— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 8, 2018

Siddaramaiah says he will ‘pursue’ defamation cases against Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Yeddyurappa

Siddaramaiah, who served a Rs 100-crore legal notice on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah and party’s Karnataka unit chief BS Yeddyurappa, asked why election is supposed to be an “open season” for allegations. 

According to the legal notice, the BJP leaders will have to face civil and criminal action and pay damages of Rs 100-crore in the event of the BJP leaders failed to withdraw their statements and issuing an unconditional public apology.

BBC News warns of fake survey being circulated on Whatsapp, says it does not commission pre-poll surveys in India

The BBC News Press Team cleared itself of any connection with a “fake” survey on Karnataka election being circulated on Whatsapp. **"**We’d like to make it absolutely clear that it is fake and does not come from the BBC. The BBC does not commission pre-election surveys in India," it said in a tweet.

This fake survey on Karnataka polls has been circulating on Whats App and claims to be from BBC News. We'd like to make it absolutely clear that it is #fake and does not come from the BBC. The BBC does not commission pre-election surveys in India. #fakenews pic.twitter.com/67MQ8VWWFB

— BBC News Press Team (@BBCNewsPR) May 7, 2018

Rahul Gandhi to interact with ’eminent citizens’ at 9.30 am

At 9.30 am, Congress president will interact with “eminent citizens” through the Samruddha Bharat platform. He will later address gatherings in  Chikkaballapur, Pavgada, and Tiptur.

Day - 2 Itinerary of Congress President Shri @RahulGandhi's visit to Karnataka where he will be holding rallies & roadshows in Tumakuru & Chikkaballapura Districts.#CongressMathomme pic.twitter.com/cDKlg6e1xr

— Karnataka Congress (@INCKarnataka) May 8, 2018

Sonia Gandhi to address rally at 3 pm

Former Congress president and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi will be addressing a mega rally at BLDE New Campus grounds in Vijayapura on Tuesday.

Amit Shah’s schedule for the day

BJP national president Amit Shah will hold roadshows today in Madikeri, Mangalore, Mangalore South, and Mangalore North constituencies. His first roadshow is scheduled to begin at 11 am from Chowdeshwari temple to toll gate at Thimmaiah Circle, while his last roadshow for the day will begin at 5 pm from BJP election office in Kavoor to Shetty Residency.

Schedule of BJP National President Shri @AmitShah's roadshows on 8 May 2018 in Karnataka. Watch at https://t.co/6OZR86CVth pic.twitter.com/j58t5qprbC

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 7, 2018

Narendra Modi’s schedule for 8 May

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address three public meetings today. He will speak at a rally in Vijayapura at 1 pm, and later address a gathering in Koppal 3 pm. His last address will be in Bengaluru at 6.30 pm.

PM Shri @narendramodi will address three rallies on 8th May 2018 in Karnataka. Watch at https://t.co/vpP0MInUi4. Dial 9345014501 to listen LIVE. pic.twitter.com/D6vgEEEVS2

— BJP (@BJP4India) May 7, 2018

Updates begin for 8 May, Tuesday

If Narendra Modi tries to change Constitution there will be bloodshed in this country: Siddaramaiah

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah alleged that minorities in the country were feeling terrorised under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dubbing the BJP a “communal party” Siddaramaiah warned the party of bloodshed if it tries to alter the basic structure of Constitution of India. “If Narendra Modi tries to change Constitution, there will be bloodshed in this country,” he said .

Ananth Kumar hegde a ’nalayak’, not even fit for being panchyat leader, says Siddaramaiah

​

Hitting out at the BJP, Siddaramaiah said, “BJP doesn’t believe in social justice, welfare of the poor or socialism. Ananth Kumar Hegde is ‘nalayak.’ He is not fit to be a gram panchayat leader and they have made him Union Minister.”

BJP, Congress talk corruption but 391 candidates in fray face criminal charges

Both BJP and Congress have been training guns on each other over the issue of corruption. However, neither seems to be spot free in the Karnataka elections. 

An  ADR  report states that 28 percent of candidates contesting the 12 May elections are facing criminal cases. The BJP tops the list with 83 of its 224 candidates (37 percent) facing criminal cases. The Congress comes in second with 59 (26 percent) of its 220 candidates embroiled in criminal cases.

Siddaramaiah aide sends legal notice to PM Modi for ’ease of murder comment’, says report

A key aide of Siddaramaiah has sent a legal notice for defemation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making ‘unfounded allegations’ against the Chief Minister of Karnataka. The notice has been sent in view of the prime minister calling Siddaramaiah, “seedha rupaiya CM” and “10 percent CM.”

Narendra Modi lost moral high ground to talk about women’s safety after Unnao rape case

Rahul Gandhi, while addresses a gathering in Hoskote, said that Narendra Modi was out of topics in the election-bound state. He said that the PM especially cannot talk about women’s security in Karnataka after what happened in Unnao. The Congress president was referring to the gangrape of a minor in Uttar Pradesh’s Unnao, where the sitting BJP MLA was accused of rape and murdering victim’s father.

Meanwhile, liquor, cash, gold jwellery flow free in poll-bound Karnataka 

In the poll-bound state, where the Model Code of Conduct is already binding, cash worth Rs 75,94,03,703 was seized by the Income Tax department and state police.

Liquor worth Rs 23,98,82,621.02 was also confiscated by Static Surveillance teams & excise department. Gold and silver worth Rs 43,25,84,717 were seized by the I-T dept,  ANI  reported.

Siddaramaiah throws open second challenge, dares Modi, Yeddyurappa for extempore debate

I have asked @BSYBJP to join me in an open debate. @narendramodi is welcome to join.

I will speak extempore. They can bring paper

Come on BSY avare let people see who they are voting for beyond the smokescreen created by hot air from Modi-Shah-Yogi teamhttps://t.co/FkSstZIQFW

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 7, 2018

PM says BJP wants to promote modern India; calls Congress regressive

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at the  Opposition for opposing technology be it in the form of Aadhaar card or EVMs and said the BJP wants to promote a modern India by giving importance to skill development and innovation.

Addressing BJP yuva morcha workers via the ‘Narendra Modi App,’ the prime minister also lauded efforts of party workers in maintaining the public mood in favour of the party despite rumours of a hung assembly in the May 12 elections in Karnataka.

PM Modi works in speaker and airplane modes only, says Rahul Gandhi

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi said that the PM functions in two modes only. “There are 3 modes in a mobile phone, work mode, speaker mode & airplane mode. Modi Ji only uses speaker mode & airplane mode, he never uses work mode,” said Rahul.

Cycle rally protest against rising fuel prices: Rahul Gandhi

Speaking to reporters after a corner meeting, Rahul Gandhi said that his cycle rally earlier in the day was a move to protest against the rising fuel prices in India. 

He accused the government of collecting Rs 10 lakh crore in taxes on petroleum products without giving any relief in prices to people.

“The BJP Government collected Rs 10 lakh crore in taxes on Petrol/LPG/Diesel since 2014. Yet, NO relief in prices for our citizens. This video shows the truth about fuel prices under PM Modi,” Gandhi said on Twitter using the hashtag ‘BJPReducePetrolPrices’.

Visuals from Rahul Gandhi’s protest in Kolar

Congress president Rahul Gandhi led a protest against the Narendra Modi government over the fuel prices. He rode a bicycle after addressing the public.

Congress President @RahulGandhi rides a bicycle in Kolar where he also protested against the rising fuel prices in the country. #BJPReducePetrolPrices #JanaAashirwadaYatre #INC4Karnataka pic.twitter.com/jD0gJM7s68

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 7, 2018

Congress President @RahulGandhi leads a protest against fuel price rise in Kolar. #JanaAashirwadaYatre #INC4Karnataka pic.twitter.com/TBclEbQoKp

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 7, 2018

Improvement of Bengaluru’s infrastructure will be BJP’s priority, says Ravi Shankar Prasad

Addressing a press conference in Karnataka, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that the state needs good monitoring. “The Government of India and Karnataka will work together for it,” he said. He further said that if voted to power, improvement of infrastructure of Bengaluru will be our BJP’s priority.

He lashed out at Congress for stalling the triple talaq bill. “Rahul Gandhi keeps talking about dignity of women. The triple talaq bill has been passed by Lok Sabha but is stuck in Rajya Sabha, where Congress is not letting the debate happen,” he said.

‘PM looting poor to help Nirav Modi’

“The prime minister should tell, why he is not reducing fuel prices. He should tell the nation that he is taking the money from common man and giving it to Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi,” Rahul Gandhi said in Kolar.

Rahul Gandhi leads protest in Kolar against fuel prices

Leading the protest in Kolar against the rising fuel prices, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said, “Has the central government given a single rupee to the farmers of Karnataka? Modi ji, you could’ve waived farmer loans across the country.”

Raising the pitch against the BJP, he said. “Narendra Modi should tell Karnataka about the qualifications of BJP’s chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa. He should tell the voters how many times he has gone to jail. The BJP will know only after the election how strong Congress is in Karnataka.”

‘Siddaramaiah govt is 10% commission govt’

BJP national president Amit Shah accused the Congress government of corruption. “Siddaramaiah wears a watch worth Rs 40 lakh. That indicates how much corruption they have done. His government has now become symbol of corruption. It is 10 percent commission government,” he said in Nargund.

He added, “Give BJP a chance this time. In five years, Narendra Modi and BS Yeddyurappa will turn Karnataka into India’s number one state.”

BJP will release water from Mahadayi river in Karnataka within six months of power, says Amit Shah in Nargund

BJP chief Amit Shah addressed a rally in Nargund. “I urge you to vote BJP to power. We will release water from Mahadayi in Karnataka within six months. Kisan apne khet mein jayega, Mahadayi ka paani ayega (The farmer will go back to his farm when Mahadayi water is released),  he said. BS Yeddyurappa government will ensure that Karnataka gets water.

‘Shocking that Narendra Modi stoops so low for elections’

Manmohan Singh accused the BJP of polarising the populations ahead of the 12 May polls in Karnataka. “It is shocking that the prime minister stoops so low during election, it is unbecoming of the prime minister. Particularly, when he is in state where election are set to take place. No prime minister has used election time to say things in manner that Modi ji has tried,” he said

‘Modi govt has punished the people’

Speaking at the press briefing in Bengaluru, ex-prime minister Manmohan Singh criticised the NDA government for increase in fuel prices. “Petrol and diesel prices are at a historic high.This is in spite of lower international crude oil prices because the Narendra Modi government chooses to levy excessive excise taxes. Instead of passing on the benefits of low prices to the people, the Modi government has punished the people,” he said.

“Every time we have sought an answer for any of the disastrous policies of the present BJP government, all we hear is that the intentions are virtuous,” he said, adding that Modi government’s policies has resulted in “massive losses” for the country.

‘Demonetisation, GST dealt a blow to rural economy and common man’

“Growth rate under NDA is lower than UPA despite favourable global conditions and changes in calculation methods,” Manmohan Singh said at a press conference in Bengaluru.

“Demonetisation and hasty implementation of GST dealt a blow to the rural economy and to the common man. High petrol prices have made the situation worse and mismanagement of the Modi government is evident,” he said.

Manmohan Singh slams Modi govt on economic policies

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh addressed a press conference to lash out at the Narendra Modi government over its “mismanagement of vision” in terms of economic policies. “Our farmers are facing an acute crisis, our aspirational youth are not finding opportunities, and the economy is growing below its potential. The unfortunate truth is that each of these crises was entirely avoidable,” he said.

Rahul Gandhi to lead protest in Kolar over increase in fuel prices

Congress president Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the BJP-led central government over increase in fuel prices. “The BJP government collected Rs 10 lakh crore in taxes on petrol/LPG/diesel since 2014. Yet, no relief in prices for our citizens,” he said, adding that he will lead a protest in Kolar over the issue.

The BJP Govt. collected 10 Lakh Crore in taxes on Petrol/LPG/Diesel since 2014. Yet, NO relief in prices for our citizens. This video shows the truth about fuel prices under PM Modi.

I will lead a protest against these prices in Kolar at Noon, today.#BJPReducePetrolPrices pic.twitter.com/YCnKwDPm6W

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 7, 2018

Manmohan Singh scheduled to address press conference in Bengaluru today

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh is scheduled to address a press conference at the Karnataka Congress headquarters in Bengaluru today.

We welcome former PM of India Dr Manmohan Singh who is visiting Bengaluru today and will be addressing a press meet here at the KPCC Office.

Our sole vision is to bring @INCKarnataka back in power and lead India towards development. #KarnatakadaHemmeCongressMatthome pic.twitter.com/9z1vTCiKcF

— Dr. G Parameshwara (@DrParameshwara) May 7, 2018

Rahul Gandhi’s schedule for 7 May

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is expected to visit Kolar distict at 12.20 pm and is scheduled to make three addresses in Bangalore Rural district later. He will attend a corner meeting Hoskote District Stadium at 2.15 pm, and another one in Junior College Ground in Devanahalli at 4 pm. His last address of the day is scheduled at 5.40 pm in Dadaballapura.

On behalf of KPCC @INCKarnataka, I welcome President @RahulGandhi who is visiting Kolar & Bangalore Rural districts today as part of #JanaAashirwadaYatre.
Here is the schedule for the Day I.
#KarnatakadaHemmeCongressMathomme pic.twitter.com/JBYQviQphv

— Dr. G Parameshwara (@DrParameshwara) May 7, 2018

Yogi Adityanath visits Chennabasava Patta Devara Mutt in Bhalki

Karnataka: UP CM Yogi Adityanath visited Chennabasava Patta Devara Mutt in Bhalki. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/5jjdJ6F8id

— ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2018

With no Muslims among BJP candidates, state’s largest religious minority may turn to Siddaramaiah

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In at least eight constituencies Muslims make up at least half the population and in a dozen more seats they can play a decisive role in deciding the winner. Not surprisingly, the BJP does not have a single Muslim candidate. The Congress and JD(S) do have Muslim candidates , but their numbers in the Assembly have been dwindling with each election, even though it is expected that this election will see caste and religious lines being drawn more sharply than usual.

The Congress has fielded 15 Muslim candidates (Congress Muslim leaders had demanded 30), while the JD(S) has 17. But the JD(S) faces a “trust deficit among Muslims as they are seen as having helped the BJP grow in the state.

JD(S) releases manifesto

JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy released the party’s manifesto. The party has promised farm loan waiver within 24 hours of taking oath, if elected to power.

JDS ಪ್ರಣಾಳಿಕೆ ಬಿಡುಗಡೆ: ಅಧಿಕಾರಕ್ಕೆ ಬಂದ 24 ಗಂಟೆಯೊಳಗೆ ರೈತರ ಸಂಪೂರ್ಣ ಸಾಲಮನ್ನಾ ಭರವಸೆ#KarnatakaElection2018 #KarnatakaPolitics #JDS

https://t.co/qKGD5dkiZs pic.twitter.com/C1GdRNUQHj

— News18 Kannada (@News18Kannada) May 7, 2018

Siddaramaiah hits back at BJP for alleging connection with Ponzi scheme

A day after BJP accused Siddaramaiah of having links with a Ponzi scheme, Siddaramaiah hit back on Twitter and said, “If BJP wants to go with this logic of using a photo to accuse me, then it should also accuse Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his photo with Nirav Modi in Davos.”

In the photograph, Siddaramaiah is seen alongside absconder Vijay Ishwaran at the World Economic Forum in 2013.

If BJP wants to go with this logic of using a photo to accuse me then it should also accuse PM Modi for his photo with Nirav Modi in Davos.https://t.co/lpNexuTr4m via @indiatoday

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 7, 2018

Siddaramaiah lists 5 reason why Karnataka shouldn’t vote for BJP

In a series of tweets, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah listed five reasons why Karnataka should not vote for the BJP:

1. BJP ran the most corrupt government in the history of Karnataka," Siddaramaiah alleged.
2. BJP ran an unstable govt with 3 CMs in 5 years.
3. BJP has no respect for freedom.
4. BJP has no commitment to peace.
5. BJP does not keep the promises it makes. 

2.BJP ran an unstable govt with 3 CMs in 5 years. MLAs were bought & sold under Operation Kamala. They were herded around from resort to resort. With most surveys giving BJP far less seats than what is need to form Govt, state will be back to the same situation.
👇

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 7, 2018

4.BJP has no commitment to peace. If in power they will unleash communal elements on streets. Incidences like church attack, pub attack will come back. Cow vigilantes will be on streets. This is neither good for life nor for business. With disrupted business jobs will go👇

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 7, 2018

5.BJP does not keep the promises it makes. At the centre they promised 15 lakhs to every one, jobs & economic growth. In practice they demonetised the economy & killed growth. Their have been anti-farmer, anti-women, anti-youth, anti-Dalit, anti-minorities & anti-business.

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 7, 2018