K’taka MLC Election: JD(S) Accuses Congress Candidate Puttanna of Poll Code Violation Over Barcode Coupons to Teachers

Bengaluru: The Janata Dal (Secular) has accused Congress candidate Puttanna of electoral malpractice, alleging that barcode-bearing coupons and “guarantee cards” were distributed to teachers under the pretext of extending Dasara festival greetings ahead of the Legislative Council election.

In a post on social media, the JD(S) alleged that the distribution was intended to influence teachers and amounted to a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. The party criticised the alleged move as an attempt to secure votes through inducements.

The JD(S) also accused the Congress of promoting what it described as a “corrupt culture”, arguing that attempts to influence teachers through such offers were particularly objectionable given their role in shaping the future of students.

Complaint filed with Election Commission

According to the JD(S), NDA candidate A.P. Ranganath and other alliance leaders have filed a formal complaint with the Election Commission over the alleged distribution of coupons.

The party has sought an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the matter and demanded action under the Representation of the People Act. It has also called for Puttanna’s disqualification from the electoral contest.

The allegations are yet to be independently verified, and no response from Puttanna or the Congress was included in the information provided.