Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won in the Karnatakas Mysore constituency with a margin of 1,39,262 votes defeating M Lakshmana of the Congress party. Mysore, a city rich in history and architectural grandeur, stands as an example of Karnatakas cultural and political heritage. Renowned for the majestic Mysore Palace, which embodies the citys illustrious past under the Wodeyar dynasty and Tipu Sultan, Mysore holds a stunning blend of architectural styles and vibrant cultural traditions. It is situated along the Cauvery and Kabini rivers. The city has long flourished through agriculture and has grown into a major tourist hub by attracting visitors with its bustling markets, palaces, and natural beauty.Cast equationsIn Mysore district of Karnataka, the Schedule Caste (SC) population constitutes 17.9% of the total population, amounting to 536,643 individuals, with 269,331 males and 267,312 females. The Schedule Tribe (ST) population accounts for 11.1% of the total population, comprising 334,547 individuals, with 166,697 males and 167,850 females.According to the 2011 Census, Mysore has a literacy rate of 87.67%, with male literacy at 90.61% and female literacy at 84.75%.Key issues in Mysore Lok Sabha constituencyTipu Sultan: The legacy of Tipu Sultan remains a divisive issue in Mysore, with some viewing him as a freedom fighter against British colonialism, while others criticize his actions towards certain communities, particularly Hindus. Political parties use his legacy to gain support along religious lines. The BJP portrays him as a tyrant who forced conversions and violence against Hindus and Christians. The debate has intensified, particularly over events like Tipu Jayanti, with the BJP opposing and other parties supporting its celebration. The renaming of Mysore airport to Tipu Sultan airport in 2023 further fueled this controversy.Hijab Ban: The hijab ban in educational institutions, introduced by the previous BJP government, has fueled debate in Mysore. The BJP defends the ban to maintain uniformity and discipline, while the Congress initially considered lifting it, citing religious freedom, before facing backlash and reconsidering.Mandir-Masjid Issue: Communal tensions over religious sites have risen, with controversies like the Masjid-e-Ala in Srirangapatna, where right-wing activists claim a Hanuman temple once stood. Such issues, along with plays portraying Tipu Sultan controversially, have heightened communal discord. Incidents like the flag replacement in Keragodu in 2022 have further escalated tensions.Anti-Conversion Bill: The BJPs Anti-Conversion Bill, aimed at curbing forced conversions, remains contentious. Supporters argue its necessary to protect vulnerable communities, while opponents, primarily Christian leaders, see it as an infringement on religious freedom. Congress announced its repeal in 2023.Water Scarcity: Mysore faces a severe water crisis, with declining water levels in major dams and an aging distribution system. Urban and rural areas alike are experiencing disruptions. Due to water scarcity, alternate-day water supply has been scheduled, and reliance on private borewells and tankers has been constantly increasing.Civic Issues: Mysore grapples with poor road conditions, unsanitary markets, a monkey menace, and traffic management challenges. Potholes and garbage heaps are common, creating health hazards and safety concerns.Who won in 2019In the 2019 general elections, Mysore, one of Karnatakas 28 Lok Sabha constituencies, saw Prathap Simha of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) retain his seat by securing 52.27% of the votes. He defeated C H Vijayashankar of the Indian National Congress (INC), who gained 41.75% of the votes. The election witnessed a voter turnout of 70.7%.History of Mysore Lok Sabha ConstituencyThe Mysore Lok Sabha constituency is one of the 28 parliamentary constituencies in Karnataka. This general category seat includes the entire Kodagu district and a portion of Mysore district.The Mysore Lok Sabha constituency, established in 1977, has a dynamic political history. It was primarily dominated by the Congress Party. Esteemed leaders such as H D Tulsidas, M Rajashekaramurthy, and Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar have all claimed victories here. However, recent elections have signaled a shift, with Pratap Simha of the BJP winning the seat, which reflects changing political tides in this Congress stronghold.
