An FIR has been filed against BJP MLA V Somana for allegedly bribing a JD(S) leader to withdraw his candidature from Chamarajanagar constituency for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections. Somana currently holds the post of minister of housing and infrastructure development in Karnataka.
The Election of Commission of India issued a statement saying it has taken serious note of the matter, adding it has “no tolerance towards any such corrupt practices”. The ECI has also asked Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Kumar Meena to keep vigil against such activities in the run-up to the May 10 Assembly polls in the state.
The FIR comes in view of an audio clip circulated on social media wherein V Somana, who is contesting from Chamarajanagar on a BJP ticket, tried to influence Mallikarjuna Swamy, a Janata Dal (Secular) candidate from the same constituency, to withdraw his nomination by offering him money and a government vehicle.
Somana has been booked under Sections 171E and 171F of the Indian Penal Code, pertaining to punishment for bribery and undue influence or personation at an election, at the Town police station in Chamarajanagar.
The Election Commission said that the election can be annulled on the basis of his conviction in corrupt practices and he may be disqualified, as per the Representation of the People Act.
Karnataka goes to the polls on May 10. The BJP is attempting to return to power this year and is pitted against its principal rival Congress. The results will be declared on May 13.
