FIR against Karnataka DyCM DK Shivakumar over ‘water for votes’ speech

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A police case has been registered against Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar for allegedly violating the model code of conduct during campaigning for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The case stems from a video in which the Congress leader purportedly promised Bengaluru voters supply of water from the Cauvery river if they voted for his brother D K Suresh, who is contesting from the Bangalore Rural constituency.

The state Election Commissioner deemed Shivakumar’s speech as a violation of the model code, leading to the registration of a police case for “bribery and undue influence at elections”.

In the video clip circulating on social media, DK Shivakumar is heard addressing residents of a housing society in his brother’s constituency, offering Cauvery river water in exchange for votes. He describes the situation as a “business deal” and assures the audience that he will fulfill their demands if they support his brother’s candidacy.

Residents of Bengaluru have been grappling with a severe water crisis for the past two months, exacerbated by the city’s heavy reliance on the Cauvery river and groundwater for its water supply. With rainfall scarcity and dwindling water sources, the city’s water supply has fallen significantly short of demand, leading to daily challenges for its residents.

The ongoing Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka is being conducted in two phases on April 26 and May 7, with results expected on June 4. The registration of the police case against DK Shivakumar adds a new dimension to the electoral landscape, highlighting concerns about ethical campaigning and the use of promises to influence voter behaviour.