The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Bangalore): In the latest turn of events stirring the political landscape of Bangalore Rural, H.D. Kumaraswamy, the state president of the Janata Dal (Secular) or JD(S), has leveled serious accusations against D.K. Suresh, the Congress candidate. Kumaraswamy alleges that Suresh is engaging in vote-buying tactics by distributing large quantities of cookers to sway voters in his favor. These charges were bolstered by photographs released by Kumaraswamy, aimed at providing evidence for his claims.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy called upon the Election Commission to take immediate action against what he describes as illicit campaign practices. He starkly warned that JD(S) activists might resort to setting fire to storage facilities holding cookers and sarees, should the authorities fail to intervene.
Highlighting the need for a fair electoral process, Kumaraswamy requested the deployment of paramilitary forces in the Bangalore Rural constituency. He expressed concerns over the alleged involvement of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Suresh’s brother, in manipulating the electoral process through official channels. Kumaraswamy’s demands extend to the replacement of key administrative officials, including the Superintendent of Police, the District Commissioner, and the CEO of the Zilla Panchayat, to ensure an impartial election.
The electoral battle in Bangalore Rural is notably intense, with Kumaraswamy’s brother-in-law, cardiologist Dr. C.N. Manjunath, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) against Suresh. Kumaraswamy questioned how a reputable figure like Dr. Manjunath could compete fairly under the shadow of such alleged illegal activities.
Kumaraswamy’s grievances were further amplified by his interaction with the chief electoral officer, who had directed the Ramanagar District Commissioner to investigate the matter. Despite assurances from commercial tax officials dismissing the allegations, Kumaraswamy’s presentation of photographic evidence raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process in Bangalore Rural, bringing to light the challenges faced in ensuring free and fair elections.