The Kurubas account for nearly 50, 000 of the 2.15 lakh voters in the constituency, and Lingayats around 60,000.

Badami is one seat where Siddaramaiah is sure to feel he is in the driver’s seat.

Darshan told Deccan Chronicle that he will carry his father’s vision of improving the lot of the farmers.

The last time the party won from Hassan was in 1989 when Mr K H Hanumegowda won from the constituency.

According to sources, Shah asked a reluctant Yeddyurappa that he should contest against Siddaramaiah from Badami.

His defiance had prompted the top brass to contemplate fielding either former minister M S Atmananda or Mr Ravi Kumar Ganiga in Mandya city.

As candidates file nominations, the city is witness to massive roadshows as a demonstration of the popularity and support.

Siddaramaiah's insistence on a second seat cannot but be based on the seasoned campaigner's knowledge of his own home constituency.

Becomes first Cong candidate to contest from two seats.

GED wants details filed on Sampoorna.