Counting of votes for the Karnataka assembly elections has begun this morning amidst tight security in 36 counting centres across the state. There are 2940 candidates including 170 women in 223 constituencies. The Congress has pitted its candidates in all the 223 constituencies, while the BJP is contesting in 222 seats and JD(S) in 221. There are 1223 Independents in the fray. They also include candidates from regional parties like KJP , BSR Congress and also BSP. Polling in Periyapatna assembly constituency in Mysore district has been deferred to May 28 by the Election Commission, following the demise of BJP Candidate.