With the release of the second list of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka, the Congress party has unveiled contenders for 24 out of the 28 constituencies in the state. A notable aspect of this announcement is the significant representation of ministers’ children and leaders’ relatives in the candidate selection process.
Out of the 24 seats announced, candidates with familial ties to sitting ministers and prominent leaders have been nominated in 12 constituencies. This strategic move underscores the Congress’s emphasis on family connections within the political landscape of Karnataka.
Among the notable nominations are:
– Geeta Shivraj Kumar, sister of Minister Madhu Bangarappa, contesting from Shivamogga Constituency.
– Venkataramane Gowda, brother of Gouribidanur Non-Party MLA Puttaswamy Gowda, fielded in Mandya.
– Priyanka Jarakiholi, daughter of Minister Satish Jarakiholi, nominated for Chikkodi.
– Sagar Khandre, son of Minister Ishwar Khandre, competing in Bidar.
– Soumya Reddy, daughter of Minister Ramalinga Reddy, representing Bangalore South.
– Dr. Radhakrishna Doddamani, son-in-law of AICC President Mallikarjuna Kharge, nominated for Kalaburagi.
This move by the Congress party signifies a deliberate strategy to consolidate support through familial networks and secure electoral success. Despite initial hesitance from some sitting ministers to contest, the party’s decision to field their children and relatives reflects a shift towards family-centric politics in Karnataka.
Furthermore, the inclusion of leaders’ relatives and children in the candidate list highlights the Congress’s intent to strengthen its position in the state by leveraging familial ties within its ranks.
As the election season unfolds, these nominations are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Karnataka and the fortunes of the Congress party in the upcoming polls.