D.N. Jeevaraj of the Indian National Congress officially assumed office as the Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the Chamundeshwari constituency in Karnataka. This followed a recount of votes requested by him, challenging the initial declaration of G.D. Harigowda of the Janata Dal (Secular) as the winner.
The initial count showed Harigowda winning by a narrow margin of 354 votes. Jeevaraj contested this result and petitioned for a recount. The recount process, completed on May 17, 2024, revealed a revised tally favouring Jeevaraj.
The final result after the recount showed D.N. Jeevaraj securing 60,889 votes, while G.D. Harigowda received 60,535 votes. This represents a shift of 354 votes, effectively reversing the previously announced outcome.
The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U.V. Srinivas. The event took place in the Speaker’s chamber at the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on May 18, 2024.
Jeevaraj’s victory marks a gain for the Congress party in the state assembly. He previously served as the MLA for Chamundeshwari in 1989 and 1994. This win represents a return to the assembly after a significant gap.
The recount process was overseen by Returning Officer M.D. Madegowda and involved meticulous verification of votes, including those cast through postal ballots. The discrepancy was identified during this detailed examination. The Election Commission of India officially certified Jeevaraj as the elected representative for the constituency.
