A tale of two cross-votings: How power politics played out in Karnataka, Jharkhand
The article discusses the outcomes of recent Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand and Legislative Council elections in Karnataka, highlighting instances of cross-voting by legislators that impacted results. In Jharkhand, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured an additional Rajya Sabha seat despite having fewer MLAs, while the Congress-led INDIA bloc faced losses. In Karnataka, the Congress outmaneuvered the BJP and its ally JD(S), defeating the JD(S) candidate in the state council elections. Both parties criticized each other's cross-voters while praising their own, labeling opposing cross-voters as 'conscience votes' and their own as 'betrayers.' The article notes that cross-voting has long been a contentious issue in Indian electoral processes, with concerns about the influence of money and power in secret ballots.
In a dramatic twist that has shaken the Congress party, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) successfully secured a Rajya Sabha seat in Jharkhand through strategic cross-voting, despite the ruling INDIA bloc holding a clear numerical advantage. The election, which took place on June 18, saw NDA-backed independent candidate Parimal Nathwani narrowly defeat Congress nominee Pranav Jha, with the latter managing only 20 votes compared to Nathwani’s 28. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate Baidyanath Ram secured the other seat with 30 votes, though three ballots—two from the BJP and one from the Congress—were invalidated. This outcome has sparked accusations of betrayal and cross-voting within the ruling alliance, particularly from the Congress, which accused the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and CPI(ML) Liberation of undermining its efforts.
The Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, consisting of 81 members, saw the INDIA bloc maintain a dominant position with 56 MLAs—34 from the JMM, 16 from the Congress, four from the RJD, and two from the CPI(ML) Liberation. The NDA, meanwhile, had only 24 MLAs, primarily from the BJP (21) and minor allies. Despite this disparity, Nathwani managed to secure the necessary 28 first-preference votes, thanks to cross-voting. The BJP, which had not fielded its own candidate, instead supported Nathwani, leveraging his reputation and past contributions to the state. The Congress, however, claimed that the RJD and CPI(ML) had defected, casting their votes for Nathwani rather than supporting the party’s candidate.
Congress’s Jharkhand affairs in-charge, K Raju, condemned the actions of the RJD and CPI(ML) Liberation, stating that all 16 Congress legislators remained loyal and that the party had received four votes from the JMM, bringing its total to 20. He argued that the BJP had indirectly influenced the outcome by backing an independent candidate who used financial means to secure votes. The RJD, represented by its chief Sanjay Prasad Yadav, dismissed these allegations as unfounded, asserting that the party adheres strictly to its ideological principles and would not betray its allies. Similarly, CPI(ML) leader Arup Chatterjee called the accusations baseless, suggesting that the Congress should examine its own internal cohesion rather than blaming smaller parties.
The BJP, on the other hand, celebrated the result, claiming that the outcome reflected the maturity of Jharkhand’s legislators, who had chosen to vote based on merit rather than allegiance. Senior BJP leader Babulal Marandi praised Nathwani’s track record, noting his contributions to the state during his previous tenure in the Rajya Sabha between 2008 and 2020. He emphasized that the voters had recognized Nathwani’s ability to drive development and that the BJP’s support had been instrumental in ensuring his victory. BJP MLA Neera Yadav also commended the MLAs for their cooperation, expressing gratitude for their thoughtful voting.
Meanwhile, the Congress faced mixed reactions. Some leaders, including Rajesh Thakur, described the outcome as a "tragic" and "shameful incident for democracy," arguing that the situation mirrored broader concerns about the purchase of votes by politicians. Others, however, viewed the loss as a consequence of poor organizational management and internal discord. The party’s failure to secure the Rajya Sabha seat in Jharkhand highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining unity within its alliances, particularly in states where multiple parties collaborate.
In contrast, the Congress achieved a notable victory in Karnataka, where it secured five of seven Legislative Council (MLC) seats. This success was attributed to cross-voting by BJP and JD(S) legislators, with the party receiving 151 votes—11 more than its expected 140. The BJP, which had initially planned to support JD(S) candidates, faced backlash for the unexpected shift, with party leaders summoning state leaders to Delhi to address the issue. The JD(S) denied the allegations, claiming that only four of its legislators had voted for Congress candidates, with the rest of the cross-votes coming from BJP members. The outcome has raised questions about the effectiveness of the NDA’s alliance management and the potential for further fragmentation.
These contrasting results underscore the complex dynamics at play in Indian politics, where cross-voting and shifting allegiances can significantly impact election outcomes. As the NDA continues to consolidate its position in the Rajya Sabha, moving closer to achieving a two-thirds majority, the Congress faces mounting pressure to improve its coordination and strengthen its alliances. The recent developments in Jharkhand and Karnataka serve as a reminder of the volatile nature of political coalitions and the importance of maintaining trust among allied parties. Moving forward, the focus will remain on how these parties navigate the challenges of internal dissent and external pressures, shaping the trajectory of governance in the months ahead.
24 reports
Times of IndiaIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8015 days ago
In Jharkhand, an independent candidate backed by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won a Rajya Sabha seat, defeating the Congress party's nominee. The result highlighted internal divisions within the INDIA alliance, which includes the Congress. The contest was closely fought, with the NDA securing the seat through cross-voting. The ruling Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) also won the single Rajya Sabha seat from Mizoram. Results from other states like Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Rajasthan were largely unopposed.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the election results factually without overtly favoring any political side. It mentions both the NDA-backed candidate winning and the Congress party's allegations of horse-trading, but does not take a stance on these claims. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the outcome and
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): The article accurately reports the election results and includes statements from various political figures. It maintains a neutral stance overall, though it emphasizes the impact on Congress.
Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8015 days ago
In the Rajya Sabha elections for Jharkhand, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha's Baidyanath Ram and the NDA-backed independent candidate Parimal Nathwani won the two seats. Ram secured 30 first-preference votes, while Nathwani received 28 votes, the minimum required to win. Congress candidate Pranav Jha received 20 votes. The focus was on Nathwani's victory, which raised questions about potential cross-voting within the ruling alliance, as the NDA lacked the majority to guarantee his win.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the election results factually without overtly favoring any political group. It mentions allegations of cross-voting but does not take a stance on them. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the vote counts and the context of the NDA's limited numbers.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): The article presents detailed facts about the election results and the cross-voting dynamics. It maintains a relatively balanced tone, though it highlights the Congress's accusations without fully addressing counterpoints.
Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8514 days ago
Congress achieved a significant victory in the Karnataka Legislative Council elections, winning five out of seven seats. This outcome was largely due to cross-voting by at least six BJP lawmakers and between four and eight JD(S) lawmakers. The BJP expressed strong disapproval, with its national president summoning the state leader to investigate the situation. The incident highlights internal divisions within the NDA coalition in Karnataka.
Bias read (Center): The article presents facts about the election results and quotes both the BJP and Congress without overtly favoring either side. It reports on the cross-voting incidents and the reactions from both parties without using biased language or omitting key perspectives.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately covers the Karnataka MLC election results and the impact of cross-voting. It cites specific numbers and quotes officials, maintaining a balanced perspective. The reporting aligns with other articles and is well-supported.
Times of IndiaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8514 days ago
The BJP leadership in India has summoned top Karnataka officials following allegations of cross-voting by BJP MLAs during the state legislative council elections. The ruling Congress party secured five out of seven seats, while the BJP and its ally Janata Dal (Secular) underperformed. The BJP reportedly received fewer votes than expected, with 56 votes compared to its official strength of 64.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information without overtly biased language or selective sourcing. It reports on the situation objectively, mentioning both the BJP's concerns and the election results without taking a clear stance on the validity of the cross-voting claims or the actions of any specific
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately summarizes the recent Rajya Sabha election results and highlights the NDA's progress. It presents the data objectively and aligns with other reports, providing a clear overview of the current standings.
Times of IndiaIndependentRightFactual 90Objective 8514 days ago
The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has increased its presence in the Rajya Sabha by securing 19 out of 26 recently elected seats, bringing their total to 150 members. This brings them closer to achieving a two-thirds majority (163 seats). The Congress-led INDIA bloc secured six seats, and Mizoram's Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) won one. The NDA's success included an unexpected win by an independent candidate supported by the alliance in Jharkhand. Most of the recent seats were uncontested, with 19 going to the NDA and five to the opposition.
Bias read (Right): The article emphasizes the strengthening position of the NDA in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting their progress toward a two-thirds majority. It notes the NDA's strategic wins, including an independent candidate's victory, which could be seen as favorable to the ruling coalition. While it mentions the
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports the Jharkhand Rajya Sabha election results and the implications of cross-voting. It provides specific details about the candidates and the voting process, maintaining a neutral and factual tone.
Scroll.inIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8515 days ago
Parimal Nathwani, an independent candidate backed by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), won a Rajya Sabha election in Jharkhand following cross-voting. The Congress' nominee, Pranav Jha, received fewer votes. Baidyanath Ram, representing the Congress ally Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, secured the second seat. The ruling alliance includes the Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Rashtriya Janata Dal, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation, with 56 MLAs in the 81-member assembly. Nathwani, who previously served in the Rajya Sabha, is currently the director of corporate affair
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual account of the election results without apparent ideological framing or biased language. It reports on the candidates, their affiliations, and the voting outcomes neutrally.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately summarizes the election results and provides background on Nathwani. It remains largely neutral, though some contextual details are omitted.
Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8515 days ago
Election results for two Rajya Sabha seats in Jharkhand have been announced. One seat was won by an independent candidate supported by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), while the other went to a Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate. The results were influenced by cross-voting, with the NDA's total MLA count in the state being lower than the number of votes secured by their candidate. The JMM candidate received more votes than the NDA-backed candidate.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the election results without apparent bias. It includes details about the candidates, their affiliations, and the vote counts, but does not show favoritism toward any political group. The language remains neutral, focusing on the outcomes and the voting
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately describes the Rajya Sabha election results and the impact of cross-voting. It presents both sides' reactions without overt bias.
Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8015 days ago
In the Karnataka Legislative Council (MLC) elections, the ruling Congress party secured five out of seven seats, surpassing the opposition BJP, which won two seats. The results highlighted instances of cross-voting by BJP and JD(S) legislators in favor of Congress candidates. Voting took place at the Karnataka Vidhana Soudha, with results announced later in the day. The elections were conducted ahead of the retirement of current MLCs on June 30.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual results of an election without overtly biased language or selective emphasis. It reports on the outcomes and mentions cross-voting by various parties but does not frame the event with a clear ideological slant. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the numerical outcome,
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 80): This report accurately details the election outcomes and mentions cross-voting by BJP and JD(S) MLAs. It remains relatively neutral in tone, though it highlights Congress's gains.
Times of IndiaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8015 days ago
In a closely contested election for two Jharkhand Rajya Sabha seats, Independent candidate Parimal Nathwani, backed by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), won one seat with 28 votes, defeating Congress candidate Pranav, who received 20 votes. The ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate Baidyanath Ram secured the second seat with 30 votes. The NDA, led by the BJP, fell short of the required 28 first-preference votes due to cross-voting, while the ruling INDIA bloc, comprising JMM and Congress, had the necessary numbers but faced competition from the NDA's independent candidate.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual account of the election results without apparent bias. It reports the outcomes, quotes both Congress and BJP officials, and explains the voting dynamics without favoring any side. There is no loaded language or one-sided sourcing.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 80): This report provides a clear account of the election results and the cross-voting dynamics. It includes direct quotes from political figures, maintaining a balanced tone.
Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 7015 days ago
Parimal Nathwani, an NDA-backed independent candidate, won the Rajya Sabha election in Jharkhand. He expressed gratitude to the people of Jharkhand, particularly the MLAs, the BJP for supporting his candidacy, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with other BJP leaders.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on an election result and quotes the candidate's statements without overtly favoring any political side. It includes direct quotes from Nathwani expressing appreciation for various groups, including the BJP and PM Modi, but does not present biased language or omit opposing views.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 70): The article accurately reports the outcome and includes direct quotes from Nathwani and BJP officials. However, it leans toward favoring the BJP narrative, potentially influencing objectivity.
Hindustan TimesIndependentLeftFactual 85Objective 8015 days ago
In Jharkhand, an NDA-backed independent candidate, Parimal Nathwani, won a Rajya Sabha seat amidst allegations of cross-voting. The ruling INDIA bloc accused the BJP of using 'money power' and influencing voting. Congress claimed that the independent candidate used money to secure the win, while the JMM candidate Baidyanath Ram also secured a seat.
Bias read (Left): The article highlights accusations against the BJP regarding the use of money power to influence the election outcome, which aligns with a left-leaning critique of economic influence in politics. The framing emphasizes the role of financial incentives in electoral success, suggesting a critical view
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately describes the Jharkhand Rajya Sabha election and the allegations of cross-voting. It presents the situation fairly, mentioning both sides' accusations without taking a biased stance. The facts align with other reports.
The HinduIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8016 days ago
The article discusses preparations for the Legislative Council elections in Karnataka, highlighting the strategic efforts by various political parties including the Congress, BJP, and Janata Dal (Secular). It mentions mock voting sessions held by these parties and outlines the competitive landscape for the seven seats, noting that the Congress is likely to secure a majority in the Upper House.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual overview of the electoral strategies and preparations by different political parties without showing clear bias toward any particular party. It reports on the expected outcomes and processes neutrally, focusing on the mechanics of the election rather than taking a立场 on
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article outlines the strategic preparations for the Council polls and provides context on the potential outcomes. It remains fairly neutral but focuses more on the Congress's prospects.
Times of IndiaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8016 days ago
The article discusses the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand, focusing on the competition between the INDIA bloc and the BJP-led NDA. Three candidates are vying for two seats: Baidyanath Ram from JMM, Pranav Jha from Congress, and Parimal Nathwani, an independent supported by the BJP. The INDIA bloc holds a majority of 56 MLAs, while the NDA has 24. Despite the numerical advantage, the INDIA bloc faces challenges due to the presence of the independent candidate.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual overview of the electoral dynamics without overtly favoring any side. It presents the situation objectively, highlighting the number of MLAs for each bloc and the current status of the race without using biased language or emphasizing one perspective over another.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately describes the political dynamics in Jharkhand and mentions the three candidates. It presents the situation objectively, noting the challenges faced by the INDIA bloc and the BJP's strategy. The facts align with other articles covering the same event.
Scroll.inIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8017 days ago
Ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand, MLAs from the opposition National Democratic Alliance (NDA) were relocated to a hotel in Ranchi, while members of the ruling INDIA bloc engaged in training sessions and a mock poll at the Chief Minister's residence. The election will feature candidates from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Congress, and an independent backed by the BJP. The INDIA bloc holds a majority of MLAs but the NDA lacks sufficient numbers to secure a victory without external support.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual account of events related to the Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand, presenting information about the movement of MLAs and the current political composition of the assembly. It includes direct quotes from a BJP MLA and does not exhibit biased language, one-sided sourc,
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately covers the movement of NDA MLAs to a hotel and contextualizes the situation within the broader electoral landscape. It remains neutral in its reporting.
India TodayIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7515 days ago
Congress faced setbacks in Rajya Sabha contests in Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh, despite having the necessary numbers. However, it achieved a significant victory in Karnataka's Legislative Council elections by securing 16 extra votes. The article highlights contrasts in the party's political strategies and alliance management.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual outcomes of elections across different states without overtly favoring any political side. It discusses challenges faced by Congress but also notes their successes, maintaining a balanced perspective.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article discusses broader political implications and contrasts Congress's performance in different regions. It exhibits some bias in framing the situation as an embarrassment for Congress.
The HinduIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7515 days ago
In the recent Council elections, at least three BJP MLAs reportedly voted for the Congress, causing embarrassment for the party. Leader of Opposition R. Ashok stated that the party would investigate and take action against those who cross-voted. The BJP had allocated 30 votes each to two candidates, but neither received enough votes initially, leading to a runoff where one candidate ultimately won with second-preference votes.
Bias read (Center): The article presents facts about the election results and quotes party officials without overtly favoring either the BJP or the Congress. It does not use emotionally charged language or selectively omit information to frame the situation in a particular light. The content remains focused on the vote
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article provides detailed accounts of cross-voting by BJP MLAs and quotes R. Ashok, aligning with other reports. However, it leans slightly towards the BJP's perspective by emphasizing the embarrassment caused to the party.
NDTVParty-alignedCenterFactual 80Objective 7515 days ago
Congress won five out of seven seats in the Karnataka upper house polls, preventing the BJP and JDS alliance from securing more than two seats. The article mentions cross-voting suspicions.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual results without overtly biased language or selective sourcing. It notes the outcome and mentions cross-voting suspicions neutrally, without taking a stance or emphasizing one side over another.
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 75): The article briefly summarizes the election results and mentions suspected cross-voting. It lacks depth compared to other reports but remains generally factual.
NDTVParty-alignedRightFactual 80Objective 7515 days ago
A BJP-backed candidate secured a seat in Jharkhand's Rajya Sabha election following cross-voting by MLAs from the CPI(ML) and Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal, according to sources.
Bias read (Right): The article highlights the victory of a BJP-backed candidate through cross-voting by opposition parties, which frames the outcome as favorable to the ruling party without providing balanced context or criticism of the situation.
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 75): The article briefly mentions the BJP-backed candidate's victory due to cross-voting but lacks detailed context compared to other articles. It is concise but omits some specifics found in other reports, slightly affecting factual completeness.
Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 7516 days ago
Preparations are complete for the Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand, where three candidates—Baidyanath Ram of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Pranav Jha of the Congress, and an independent supported by the BJP—are competing for two seats. The Jharkhand Chief Minister met with Congress leaders to strategize. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has chosen to back an independent candidate despite not having enough MLAs in the assembly. Voting will occur at the Jharkhand Assembly premises between 9 am and 4 pm, with results expected after the Election Commission grants approval.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of the situation without overtly favoring any political group. It mentions the involvement of multiple parties, their strategies, and logistical details of the election process without using biased language or emphasizing one side over another.
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 75): The article provides background on the Jharkhand Rajya Sabha election but lacks specific details on the cross-voting incidents. It sets the scene well but is less comprehensive compared to other articles covering the same event.
The Indian ExpressIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 8516 days ago
Voting has begun for the election of members to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India's Parliament, in the states of Jharkhand and Mizoram.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a neutral summary of an event without any apparent framing or emphasis that suggests a particular ideological perspective. It does not include quotes, opinions, or contextual information that would indicate a slant.
Why these scores (Factual 75 · Objective 85): The article provides basic information about the event but lacks specific details about candidates or outcomes. It remains neutral in tone, though it doesn't offer much depth compared to other sources.
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