Belagavi

In Phase 3 of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka, the northern region saw a voter turnout of 9.45% by 9:30 AM. Notable turnouts include Shivamogga at 11.39% and Raichur at 8.27%. Despite challenges like a heatwave alert, the Election Commission ensured smooth polling. In Bagalkote, BJP and Congress candidates vie for victory, with an 8.59% turnout by 9 AM.

Pink-coloured Sakhi polling booths, aimed at attracting voters, have been set up across Karnataka for the ongoing elections. These booths feature information on various topics like global warming and Togari Kanaj farming. District Collector Fauzia Tarannum visited one such booth in Kalaburagi. Additionally, special efforts, including the construction of pink booths in Belagavi and a youth-built booth in Shivamoga, aim to encourage voter participation.

In Aremallapur village, Karnataka, Hanumavva Medleri, 50, faced a brutal assault allegedly due to her son's elopement with Pooja. Relatives of the girl assaulted Hanumavva, tying her to a pole, and beating her. This follows a similar incident in Vantamuri village, Belgaum, drawing national attention.

Congress MLA Raju Kage, during an election rally in Jugula village, criticized the BJP and its supporters for focusing on religious slogans like 'Jai Shri Ram' instead of development. He denounced the BJP's emphasis on building temples and urged voters to prioritize policies over religious rhetoric. Kage's remarks have sparked controversy ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Raju Kage, the MLA from Karnataka, sparked controversy during the 2024 Lok Sabha campaign by allegedly threatening voters with electricity cuts if they didn't support the Congress candidate. This follows earlier warnings about loyalty to the party. Such coercion undermines democracy and violates voters' rights. Kage's actions are irresponsible and unacceptable.

Ahead of phase 3 Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi holds back-to-back rallies in Northern Karnataka, criticizing Congress for neglecting national interests and prioritizing personal gains. Modi emphasizes India's progress, contrasts it with alleged Congress failures, and urges support for BJP's vision.

Prime Minister Modi is intensifying BJP's campaign in Northern Karnataka following the second-phase polling in 14 constituencies. Rallies in Belagavi, Uttara Kannada, Davanagere, and Ballari aim to bolster party support. With historical dominance in Karnataka's Lok Sabha elections, BJP faces the challenge of maintaining success against Congress. 

In a special interview with "Kannadaprabha," Jagadish Shettar addresses accusations of opportunism, neglect of Belagavi, and his transition to national politics. He emphasizes BJP's national ideology over Congress's guarantee schemes, asserts party unity, and counters allegations of being an outsider. Shettar predicts BJP's resurgence and dismisses baseless accusations against the centre.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister Jagdish Shettar fulfilled his promise to establish residency in Belagavi, moving into a house during the Ugadi festival. This move was prompted by a challenge from Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar during the election campaign. Shettar plans to open an office in Belgaum and emphasized his connection to the district despite criticism of being an outsider.

Shop owners in Karnataka faced language mix-ups while complying with a new rule mandating Kannada nameplates for businesses. Errors led to comical translations like "Sattaguru" (instead of "Sadguru") meaning 'Dead guru'. Online translation tools confused. Despite initial laughter, owners now ensure accurate Kannada displays, aided by locals and experts.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, contesting from the BJP in Belagavi, asserts it as his "karmabhoomi" despite hailing from Hubli. Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar challenges his residency claim, highlighting the BJP's alleged neglect of local issues. The electoral clash emphasizes local representation vs. national leadership, epitomized by the slogans "We are Pakka Local" vs. "Modi Guarantee."

The 'Go Back Shettar' campaign is gaining traction on social media after the BJP high command decided to grant former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar the ticket for the Belgaum Lok Sabha constituency. Local BJP workers and opposition members are advocating for local candidates and opposing Shettar's nomination. Shettar's history of party switching adds complexity to the situation. The campaign intensified following the BJP's announcement of the 2nd list for Karnataka.

In Belagavi, Karnataka, a woman was brutally raped amidst a property dispute involving illegal land encroachment. Despite government intervention, justice remains elusive due to local influence. Calls for action to address land disputes and violence against women have intensified. The incident highlights systemic challenges and the need for accountability and meaningful solutions.

A Swift car carrying wedding attendees met with a fatal accident near Nandgad, Belagavi, killing six individuals instantly. The car, identified as a Maharashtra Passing vehicle, was carrying nine passengers. Belagavi SP, Dr. Bhima Shankar Guled, visited the scene to oversee the investigation amidst the sombre atmosphere.

Belagavi police arrest three individuals for allegedly raping three minor girls on Valentine’s Day. Accused forcibly took girls in car, raped them in garden, threatened to kill if disclosed—complaint filed under POCSO Act.