Karnataka 2023: Video Shows KPCC Chief D K Shivakumar Throwing Currency Notes At A Rally

A video of Karnataka Congress Chief DK Shivkumar surfaced on Wednesday (March 29) where he is seen showering Rs 500 notes at a procession, a day before the Election Commission announced elections in the state.

The video was shot during the ‘Praja Dhwani Yatra’ organised by the Congress near Bevinahalli in Mandya district of South Karnataka.

Shivakumar, seen on top of a vehicle, was seen throwing notes at people during the procession.

Since the Model Code of Conduct kicks in only after the election dates are announced, it remains to be seen if the the Karnataka Congress president can be held accountable for the incident.

Mandya is regarded as a stronghold of the Janata Dal (Secular) and is a city dominated by voters belonging to the Vokkaliga community.

Seven seats in the district were won by the JD(S) in the 2018 Assembly polls. However, the BJP managed to wrest the KR Pet seat in the by-elections.

Shivakumar, a Vokkaliga himself, is a chief contender for the chief ministerial post in his party, along with former chief minister Siddaramaiah.

He called on the Vokkaliga community to strengthen his hands and avoid voting for the JD(S).

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai lashed out at the Congress and Shivakumar for the throwing of notes. “He does everything… He blatantly misuses all kinds of power,” the CM said.

“By throwing notes, they think people are beggars. People will teach them, people are the real owners,,” the CM went on to add.

CM Bommai also alleged on Tuesday that the Congress party is trying to poach BJP lawmakers.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India announced election dates for the state. In a single-phase election, Karnataka votes on 10 May and the results will be declared on 13 May.