Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is facing a police case for allegedly violating the model code during the Lok Sabha election campaign. The case involves a video in which he is reportedly heard telling Bengaluru voters that he would provide them with water from the Cauvery River if they voted for his brother, DK Suresh, who is contesting for a seat in Bangalore Rural.
According to the state Election Commissioner, Mr Shivakumar’s statements breached the model code, resulting in charges of “bribery and undue influence at elections.”
In the video circulating on social media, Mr Shivakumar is seen speaking to residents of a housing society in his brother’s constituency, describing his visit as a “business deal” and promising residents he would secure Cauvery water for them if they supported his brother.
Bengaluru residents have been dealing with severe water shortages lately, relying mostly on the Cauvery River and groundwater for their water supply. The current water supply is only half of what the city needs, causing daily challenges for its residents.
The Karnataka Lok Sabha elections will be held in two phases on April 26 and May 7, with results for all seats scheduled to be announced on June 4.
