KOPPAL: The Koppal byelection seems to be a battle for prestige for the BJP, survival for JD(S). With Congress leader Siddaramaiah and former chief minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy declaring to fight it out to the hilt, the battle has gained momentum. The initial hype generated after the visit of a host of the BJP leaders including Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda, seems to be fizzing out for BJP candidate Sanganna Karadi.However, Kumaraswamy opined here on Tuesday that though the outcome of the poll could boost the confidence of the winning party, it could not be an indicator to the next assembly elections in the state.Though caste and money could continue to be a driving force as always, it appears to be an ordeal for the party leaders as this is the first poll test for the chief minister.By fielding a Lingayat Pradeepagouda Patil, the JD(S) seems to be intent on denting the BJP’s vote share in the dominant Lingayat community, and thereby settle scores with Karadi Sanganna, who deserted the JD(S).Congress candidate Basavaraj Hitnal is perhaps banking his hopes on the Kuruba community and the minority communities, which form a sizeable vote bank in the constituency.In the past, voters of the constituency have more often chosen a candidate of the Opposition party.
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