Karnataka, with its capital in Bangalore, is one of India's most politically crucial states. The election, held on May 12, 2018, witnessed intense campaigning, fierce debates, and a closely contested battle for power among the major political parties.
The election saw a triangular contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Indian National Congress (INC), and the Janata Dal (Secular) JD(S). These parties fielded their candidates across the state to secure a majority in the 224-member assembly. Pre-election Alliances: In a bid to maximize their chances of forming the government, the INC and JD(S) formed a post-poll alliance ahead of the election. This alliance aimed to prevent the BJP from gaining a majority and possibly forming the government.
The election witnessed a high voter turnout, with more than 72% of the eligible voters casting their votes. People from all sections of society, including urban and rural areas, actively participated in the electoral process. Karnataka has a diverse electorate with varied linguistic, regional, and caste-based considerations. The election witnessed the influence of caste-based politics, with parties actively targeting specific caste groups to secure their support.
The election results led to a hung assembly, meaning no single party secured an outright majority. The BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, followed by the INC with 78 seats and the JD(S) with 37 seats. Several independent candidates and smaller parties also won seats. In a dramatic turn of events, the INC and JD(S) formed a post-poll coalition to stake their claim to form the government. HD Kumaraswamy of the JD(S) was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, with support from the INC. This coalition arrangement allowed the parties to collectively cross the majority mark. The election also witnessed legal and political controversies surrounding the process of government formation. There were debates over the Governor's role, claims of horse-trading, and allegations of unethical practices to secure the support of elected representatives.
The Karnataka State Legislative Assembly Election 2018 had a significant impact on the state's political landscape. The formation of a coalition government marked a unique political scenario, where two major parties joined hands to govern the state. The election showcased the dynamic nature of Indian politics, with alliances and post-poll arrangements playing a crucial role in government formation.
