Karnataka elections: Trouble for Somanna as EC books him for ‘bribing’ candidate to withdraw nomination
2 min read
Mysuru: Following an FIR lodged against BJP candidate V Somanna who is contesting in Varuna and Chamarajanagar Assembly constituencies for allegedly bribing Mallikarjuna Swamy alias Alur Mallu JDS candidate in Chamarajanagar, BJP minister for Housing could face a trouble, if the law takes its course.
An audio clip purported to be of Somanna and his aide allegedly offering Rs 50 lakh in cash and a government car to Alur Mallu allegedly to withdraw nomination had gone viral on social media attracting EC’s attention. The Election Commission of India flying squad chief Dr B R Jayanna has lodged a complaint against V Somanna at Chamarajanagar town police station. His aides Nataraju and Sudeep too have been booked in the case.
This could prove a setback to the BJP that is eyeing to gain its hold in Mysuru region, a JDS dominated ground.
It must be noted here that the FIR has been filed under Sec 171 E and 171 F of IPC, 1860. Under these sections, if Somanna is found guilty, election can be annulled and the candidate may be disqualified under section 8(1) (a) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Besides, if he is found guilty after the elections and if he wins the election, not only the elections would be annulled but his candidature would be disqualified (both at Varuna and Chamarajanagar). This certainly spells trouble for BJP as Varuna – where Somanna is fielded against Siddaramaiah – has turned out to be a battle for prestige.
-Team Mysoorunews
Mysooru News
