Bagalkot: As Karnataka gears up for crucial by-elections, the Indian National Congress finds itself embroiled in intense internal conflict over ticket distribution, while the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party has already announced its candidates, gaining a strategic advantage.
The delay and disagreements within Congress have turned candidate selection into a major political challenge, raising concerns over the party’s preparedness ahead of the high-stakes electoral battle.
Sources indicate that Mallikarjun Meti and Umesh Meti are the leading contenders, with Umesh Meti emerging as the frontrunner. However, tensions escalated after Mahadevi Meti reportedly warned of contesting independently if denied the party ticket.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is said to have advised unity within the family, urging all members to support the final candidate.
“Even if one candidate is chosen, all must work together,” party leadership has stressed, though dissent continues to simmer.
Leaders from the Muslim community are strongly pushing for representation, while state minister S. S. Mallikarjun is lobbying for his son Samarth Mallikarjun to secure the ticket.
The situation has further escalated as Mallikarjun has reportedly skipped Assembly sessions and key party meetings for three consecutive days, signaling deep dissatisfaction and growing internal friction.
During the recent screening committee meeting, eight names were shortlisted, with five candidates from the minority community, highlighting the extent of internal debate and lack of consensus.
Political observers note that the ongoing crisis reflects deeper factional divides within Karnataka Congress, making ticket allocation a crucial test of leadership authority and party unity.
Meanwhile, the BJP’s early announcement of candidates has positioned it strongly, potentially giving it an upper hand in both constituencies.
