The Tumakuru Lok Sabha constituency in Karnataka features a unique blend of Vokkaliga and Veerashaiva-Lingayat communities, significantly influencing election outcomes. The BJP's V. Somanna (Lingayat) faces Congress' S.P. Muddahanume Gowda (Vokkaliga), a former MP who recently switched back to Congress after a brief stint with the BJP. All three major parties – Congress, BJP, and JD(S) – have strong local bases, leading to intense competition.
The BJP highlights Prime Minister Modi's contributions, while the Congress emphasizes its 'guarantees' and criticizes the central government's handling of drought relief and tax sharing.
The constituency's political landscape has changed recently. Several JD(S) legislators joined the Congress, and some JD(S) Muslim leaders also switched to the Congress. Conversely, a former Congress MLA joined the JD(S). The BJP faces internal strife with a disgruntled former minister abstaining from campaigning.
Public opinion is divided. Some dismiss the Congress's guarantees, citing increased prices, while others praise their impact on household incomes and access to essential services. The 'guarantees' appear to be particularly beneficial for women and economically weaker sections.
The constituency's demographics include a significant number of Vokkaligas, Veerashaiva-Lingayats, Muslims, Kurubas, Gollas, Tigulas, Kunchitigas, SCs, and OBCs. Congress expects to win due to a perceived lack of coordination between BJP and JD(S) workers and the popularity of its 'guarantees'.