Karnataka BJP Launches Major Political Campaign Against Congress

The BJP has launched a significant political campaign in Karnataka, starting a 10-day foot march named 'Ballari Chalo' from Lingasugur. This initiative aims to highlight various issues against the Congress government, including corruption and drought management. With over 30,000 participants expected, the march is seen as a crucial step leading up to the 2028 assembly elections. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has acknowledged the challenge posed by this campaign, indicating a potential shift in the state's political dynamics. As the march progresses, it will be interesting to see how much public support the BJP can rally and how the Congress government will respond to this growing pressure.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 1, 2026, 17:05 IST

Political Campaign Kicks Off

Bengaluru. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has initiated a significant political campaign against the Congress government in Karnataka. This 10-day foot march commenced on Tuesday from Lingasugur in Raichur district, covering approximately 175 kilometers, and is set to conclude in Ballari on September 10. The march has intensified the political landscape in the state, posing a greater challenge for Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

Objectives of the March

Led by BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra, this foot march is dubbed 'Ballari Chalo.' The party accuses the Congress government of corruption, mishandling drought issues, delays in government recruitment, and neglecting the interests of Dalits and Adivasis. Key issues such as the Valmiki Corporation scam, KPSC recruitment scandal, misuse of SC-ST funds, and drought management will be prominently addressed during the march.

A Broader Campaign

BJP leaders assert that this march is not limited to a single issue but serves as a public awareness campaign against multiple failures of the government. The party views it as the first phase of a prolonged struggle leading up to the 2028 assembly elections.

Route and Participation

The march will proceed from Lingasugur through Maski, Sindhanur, Kanakagiri, Gangavati, Kampli, Sandur, and conclude in Ballari city. Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, along with senior leaders and activists like R. Ashok and Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, are expected to participate. The party claims that over 30,000 individuals will join the march.

Challenges for Shivakumar

In response to the march, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that such events provide Congress with an opportunity to counter the BJP. He mentioned that the party would devise a counter-strategy. However, this large-scale campaign from the opposition is likely to increase pressure on the ruling Congress, especially in northern Karnataka, where the BJP is perceived to have a stronghold.

Political Implications

The BJP alleges that the government is not taking the drought situation and the 250,000 vacant positions seriously, while Congress dismisses it as a political stunt. This foot march is anticipated to bring a new twist to Karnataka's political scene. It remains to be seen how much public support the BJP can garner during this 10-day journey and how the Congress government will respond.