Slogans like ‘Jai Shri Ram!’, ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai!’, and ‘Modi ki Jai!’ were heard outside the counting centres of Bangalore South, Bangalore Central, and Bangalore North Lok Sabha constituencies as BJP leaders secured victories in Bengaluru. Party workers celebrated with crackers, drums, sweets, saffron flags, and posters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Many supporters dressed as Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman.
Every time Bangalore South candidate Tejasvi Surya led over Congress candidate Sowmya Reddy, the slogans grew louder. Disappointed Congress supporters left the centre as Surya’s lead exceeded 1.5 lakh. They expressed frustration at Sowmya Reddy’s unexpected poor performance despite government assurances.
In Bangalore North, Congress candidate Professor Rajeev Gowda arrived early. As results came in, he was overtaken by BJP candidate Shobha Karandlaje. Shobha’s lead increased steadily, and Gowda, initially confident, became despondent and eventually left the counting centre with his supporters before the final results.
Karandlaje arrived at the centre around 4 pm, and BJP workers welcomed her with bouquets and danced outside. In Bangalore Central, an interesting contest occurred between BJP’s PC Mohan and Congress’ Mansoor Ali Khan. By Tuesday afternoon, Mansoor led by over 80,000 votes, prompting Congress celebrations. However, after 2 pm, Mohan overtook Mansoor, leading to BJP celebrations with crackers and slogans.
Celebrations continued at the BJP head office in Malleswaram, where workers distributed ‘laddoos’ in anticipation of a clean sweep in the three city constituencies.
