BENGALURU: Escalating his attack on the ruling Congress ahead of the by-elections, Leader of Opposition R Ashok on Monday claimed that an internal intelligence report of the Karnataka government has predicted defeat for the ruling party in two Assembly constituencies, intensifying the political heat in the state.
Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Ashok alleged that the Congress leadership is rattled by the findings of its own intelligence inputs. “According to the state government’s internal intelligence report, Congress is likely to lose both constituencies. This has clearly shaken the leadership. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who was campaigning in Kerala, rushed back to Bagalkot immediately after these inputs,” he claimed.
The by-elections to Bagalkot and Davanagere South Assembly constituencies are scheduled for April 9, and both have turned into high-stakes contests for the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP. The people are being closely watched as a mid-term test of the Siddaramaiah government’s popularity and performance.
Projecting confidence in BJP’s chances, Ashok said the party has conducted an aggressive and effective grassroots campaign. “There is a strong wave against the Congress government. People are ready to teach them a lesson. This is an anti-development government, and the anger among voters is visible across both constituencies,” he asserted.
The BJP leader further claimed that internal divisions within Congress are weakening its electoral prospects. “There is total confusion within the Congress. In Davanagere South, a significant section of Muslim voters has decided not to support the party. In Bagalkot, there is internal conflict within the Congress candidate’s own family. These issues will certainly impact their performance,” he alleged.
Taking aim at Congress’ much-publicised guarantee schemes, Ashok questioned their effectiveness on the ground. “Congress leaders keep boasting about their guarantees and development work. If these schemes are truly benefiting people, why is the party struggling in by-elections? Are people willingly supporting them, or is there growing dissatisfaction?” he asked, suggesting that the welfare narrative may not be translating into electoral gains.
Ashok also launched a broader critique of the Congress government’s governance record, accusing it of failing to deliver on development. “There has been zero development since Congress came to power. Karnataka has been turned into a debt-ridden state under Siddaramaiah’s leadership. The government is busy making announcements but failing in execution,” he charged.
He further alleged delays in the disbursal of benefits under guarantee schemes. “Even those who are supposed to benefit from these schemes are not receiving payments on time. This reflects poor financial management and administrative failure,” he said, adding that the government’s focus on populist measures has come at the cost of long-term economic stability.
According to Ashok, the upcoming bypoll results will serve as a referendum on the Congress government. “This election is not just about two constituencies. It reflects the overall mood of the people. The frustration against the government is building, and it will be clearly visible in the results,” he maintained.
Meanwhile, Congress leaders have rejected Ashok’s allegations, terming them politically motivated. They have expressed confidence of retaining both seats, citing welfare schemes and development initiatives implemented by the government. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has intensified campaigning, highlighting flagship guarantee programmes and outreach efforts aimed at various sections of society.
