The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka are generating significant interest, with pre-poll surveys indicating a potential shift in power dynamics. According to a recent survey by Kannada media outlet Eedina, the Congress party is poised for a substantial gain, projected to secure victory in 17 out of the total 28 seats. Conversely, the BJP-JDS alliance is anticipated to claim 11 seats, marking a departure from their previous performance.
In terms of vote share, the Congress party is expected to garner 43.77 percent, reflecting a notable surge of nearly 12 percent compared to the 2019 polls. Conversely, the BJP-JDS alliance is forecasted to experience a decline of 18.7 percent, securing a combined vote share of 42.35 percent. If realized, this would signify the BJP’s first electoral setback in Karnataka since 1996.
It’s noteworthy that the Eedina pre-poll survey sampled 52,678 respondents between February 15 and March 5. Additionally, opinions on the incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi vary, with 49.18 percent favoring his reelection for a third term, while only 33.06 percent rated his performance as excellent.
However, a recent opinion poll by News18 presents a contrasting outlook, suggesting that the NDA is poised to replicate its 2019 success, potentially securing 25 seats out of 28, with the Congress expected to secure only three seats. This time, the BJP is contesting in alliance with JD(S).
The 2019 Lok Sabha elections saw the BJP clinch 25 seats with a commanding vote share of 51.7 percent, while the Congress secured one seat with a 32.1 percent vote share. Additionally, JD(S) and an Independent candidate each won one seat in Karnataka.
As the electoral landscape evolves, Karnataka gears up for voting on April 26 and May 7, during the second and third phases of the Lok Sabha elections.
