Karnataka MLC Polls: DK Shivakumar up for a big fight?

The ruling Congress and the formidable BJP-JD (S) alliance are locked in a fierce battle for four Karnataka Legislative Council seats on October 23. Polling spans, the South-East and West Graduates' constituencies, alongside the North-East and Bengaluru Teachers' constituencies, with vote counting set for October 27.

This election serves as a crucial test of strength for both sides. Beyond testing the ruling Congress party's grassroots support among graduates and educators, it presents a major political litmus test for Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Navigating this high-profile showdown will measure his leadership and alliance-management capabilities as the coalition challenges the state government's momentum.