Karnataka government focuses on rural healthcare and education; Congress fields young candidate in Bagalkot bypoll
Medical College in Bagalkot to Empower Rural Students
In a significant push towards strengthening healthcare and medical education, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the establishment of a well-equipped medical college and hospital in Bagalkot district.
The initiative aims to support students from rural areas, economically weaker sections, farming families, and backward communities to pursue careers in medical science and become doctors. The Chief Minister stated that the facility will be developed on par with similar institutions across other districts in the state.
He also paid tribute to late leader HY Meti, noting that the project was one of his long-standing demands. Siddaramaiah said Meti would have been pleased to witness the foundation-laying ceremony.
Congress Bets on Youth in Bagalkot By-Election
Meanwhile, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar confirmed that the Congress party has fielded Umesh Meti as its candidate for the upcoming Bagalkot Assembly by-election.
Shivakumar said the decision was based on a detailed booth-level survey that indicated strong support for the Meti family in rural areas. Emphasizing the party’s approach, he stated that Congress continues to give opportunities to young leaders in line with its traditions.
He also claimed that several leaders from the BJP and independent candidates are showing willingness to support or join the Congress party.
Focus on Healthcare Development and Free Services
Highlighting the government’s achievements, Shivakumar said that the Congress administration has prioritized healthcare infrastructure and expanded access to free medical services.
He added that the new medical college in Bagalkot reflects the government’s commitment to fulfilling the vision of leaders like HY Meti and improving healthcare accessibility in underserved regions.
By-Election Schedule Announced by Election Commission
The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for by-elections across eight Assembly constituencies in six states, including Bagalkot and Davanagere South in Karnataka.
Key dates include:
- Gazette Notification: March 30, 2026
- Last Date for Nominations: April 6, 2026
- Scrutiny of Nominations: April 7, 2026
- Withdrawal Deadline: April 9, 2026
- Polling Date: April 23, 2026
- Counting & Results: May 4, 2026
The entire election process is expected to conclude by May 6, 2026.
Constituencies Going to Polls
The by-elections will be held in the following constituencies:
- Ponda (Goa)
- Umreth (Gujarat)
- Bagalkot & Davanagere South (Karnataka)
- Rahuri & Baramati (Maharashtra)
- Dharmanagar (Tripura)
- Koridang (Nagaland)
