The delay in announcing candidates for the upcoming parliamentary elections, even in constituencies devoid of insurgent factors, is troubling Congress workers across the state.
The Congress unveiled its preliminary list of seven candidates for Karnataka in the first week of March. Despite rumors spreading on social media about possible candidates for other constituencies, the party is yet to make an official announcement. This delay has frustrated party workers, especially as the BJP has already announced candidates for most of the seats as the elections approach.
In Karnataka, parliamentary elections will be held in two phases, with the coastal and old Mysuru regions going to polls on April 26 and the north Karnataka region on May 7.
A senior said, “Party leaders had assured us that the names would be announced well in advance. The process of identifying the candidates had started months ago. However, now we are seeing a delay in the announcement of the candidates. Party should have announced its candidates earlier.” the party leader told Deccan Chronicle.
“While it is understandable that there may be a delay in constituencies with tough competition and potential insurgent factors, there are many areas where such issues are minimal or non-existent. In those areas, the party should have announced candidates much earlier. Announcing the candidates will introduce them, he said, adding, “The morale of the people and workers will increase. It is being said that some candidates have been instructed to start campaigning after their names are finalised. However, until an official announcement is made, it is difficult to launch a full-fledged campaign.”
Meanwhile, the BJP, which has already announced candidates for 20 constituencies, has started campaigning in the names of its chosen candidates. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held two public rallies in Karnataka in a week.
