Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy’s son Nikhil was defeated by independent candidate Sumalatha by 1,25,876 votes in Mandya. The electoral battle for this district 100 km away from Bengaluru was a matter of prestige for Chief Minister Kumaraswamy, since it was JD(S)’ bastion, and it was also a test of the unity of the coalition government.
Sumalatha, who is the widow of actor and former MP Ambareesh, was denied a ticket by the Congress party citing their promise to give the seat to their coalition partner JD(S). She subsequently contested as an Independent.
The JD(S) expected that a transfer of vote from the Congress and JD(S)’ influence in the region would ensure a smooth political debut for the Nikhil. However, many Congress leaders and workers in the district had rebelled against the party over its decision to deny Sumalatha a ticket.
This sympathy wave in her favour is said to have ensured her victory.