NewsFlash Daily™
22 March
Congress fields Umesh Meti and Samarth Mallikarjuna by consensus, DCM hits out at opposition while announcing relief on Bengaluru water bills
Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday announced that Congress has finalised its candidates for the upcoming by-elections through consensus, while also launching a sharp attack on opposition parties and announcing a water bill interest waiver for Bengaluru residents.
Consensus Candidates for Key Bypolls
Shivakumar confirmed that Umesh Meti, son of H.Y. Meti, will contest from Bagalkot Assembly constituency, while Samarth Mallikarjuna, grandson of veteran leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa, has been chosen for Davanagere South.
“After discussions with minority leaders and AICC secretaries, we arrived at a unanimous decision. We will contest unitedly and win both constituencies,” Shivakumar stated.
Nomination Filing Ceremony on Monday
The DCM said he, along with Chief Minister and senior leaders, will participate in the nomination filing ceremony on Monday. He also dismissed media speculation over ticket distribution, stating that the high command finalized decisions late at night.
Minority Representation Debate Addressed
Responding to concerns over minority representation, D.K. Shivakumar acknowledged that demands for tickets were valid.
“They are asking based on population. It is not wrong. Everyone in the party is committed to its decision,” he said.
He added that multiple aspirants within political families are natural, especially when internal demand for tickets increases during elections.
Sharp Attack on BJP-JDS
Taking a dig at opposition parties, Shivakumar questioned their electoral performance.
“Which elections have the opposition parties won? We have won their seats,” he remarked.
He also alleged a lack of consensus within opposition ranks, suggesting that their candidate selection reflects internal discord.
Praise for Shivashankarappa’s Legacy
Highlighting development in Davanagere, Shivakumar praised Shamanur Shivashankarappa for his decades-long contribution, including drinking water supply, housing for the poor, and educational infrastructure.
Water Bill Interest Waiver Announced
In a key relief measure ahead of Ugadi, Shivakumar announced that interest on pending water bills in Bengaluru has been waived.
“This will benefit lakhs of consumers. We are also expanding water supply through Cauvery Phase V and planning Phase VI,” he said.
He assured that despite rising population due to migration, the government is committed to ensuring adequate drinking water supply across the city.
Political Momentum Builds Ahead of Bypolls
With candidate announcements and welfare measures, the ruling Congress appears to be strengthening its position ahead of crucial by-elections, while maintaining an aggressive stance against rivals.
