R. Ashok (Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka) accused D.K. Shivakumar (Deputy Chief Minister and KPCC president) of indirectly aiding the BJP in the upcoming bypolls for two Assembly seats in Karnataka. Ashok suggested that Shivakumar believes a loss for Congress would pave his way to the Chief Minister's position. He criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for commenting on the BJP's campaign strategies, specifically regarding the involvement of expelled MLA Basanagouda R. Patil Yatnal. Ashok alleged that some members of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) were spreading misinformation about BJP candidate Viranna Charantimath, claiming that voting for the BJP would lead to jail terms. He encouraged voters in Bagalkot to participate fearlessly, emphasizing support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Furthermore, Ashok accused Congress of planning to spend large sums to sway voters and called for a fair election process, urging the district electoral officer to investigate these claims.