A dramatic political twist has unfolded in Karnataka after a court-ordered recount in the Sringeri Assembly seat overturned the earlier election result, sparking a fresh political battle between the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Recount Changes Result After 3 Years
The seat, which was originally won by Congress candidate T D Raje Gowda by a narrow margin in 2023, has now gone in favour of BJP’s D. N. Jeevaraj after rechecking of ballot votes. The recount was carried out following directions from the Karnataka High Court.
Invalid Votes at Centre of Dispute
During the recount, several ballot votes earlier counted in favour of Congress were found to be invalid. This shifted the final outcome, leading to Jeevaraj being declared the winner.
Congress Hits Back With Complaint
Soon after the reversal, a Congress representative filed a criminal complaint, accusing Jeevaraj and officials involved in the earlier counting process. However, the High Court intervened and put a hold on the case, warning authorities not to act under political pressure.
BJP Calls It ‘Truth Coming Out’
Jeevaraj defended the outcome, saying the recount revealed what had gone wrong earlier. He claimed that discrepancies in postal ballot counting had impacted the original result and said he had been fighting the case for years to correct it.
Oath Taking Still Uncertain
Despite receiving the official certificate, Jeevaraj’s oath as MLA is yet to happen. U. T. Khader, the Assembly Speaker, said legal clarity is needed before proceeding, adding that the matter involves technical complications.
Political Tension Rises
The issue has now reached the Governor, with BJP leaders demanding immediate action to allow Jeevaraj to take oath. Meanwhile, Congress leaders continue to question the process, keeping the controversy alive.
A Rare Political Turnaround
The development has turned Sringeri into one of the most talked-about seats in the state, showing how even years after an election, results can change through legal intervention.
