Counting of votes for the Karnataka assembly elections will be taken up tomorrow. The 36 counting centres across the state, are ready to count votes cast on May 5 polling day. There are 2940 candidates in 223 constituencies, with 170 of them being women. The Congress had pitted its candidates in all the 223 constituencies, while the BJP had fielded 222 candidates; JD(S) had fielded 221 candidates, while Independents numbered 1223. Various candidates from regional parties, including that of KJP and BSR Congress were in fray.

The BJP had made inroads in South by winning 110 seats in the 2008 election while Congress had won 80 seats, Janata Dal (Secular) 28 and independents six. Polling in Periyapatna assembly constituency in Mysore district has been deferred to May 28 by the Election Commission, following the demise of BJP Candidate.

In each counting centres, 14 tables are arranged to count votes cast in each constituency. It will be managed by counting officials, supervisors, assistants and micro observors. Tight security is in place to ensure smooth passage of counting process. Prohibitory orders under section 144 are issued around the counting centres till midnight.

The ban on sale of liquor will also continue till tomorrow midnight. Important candidates in fray are leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Assembly Siddaramaiah, KPCC Chief Parameshwar, former Union minister Ambareesh, Union Minister Mallikarjuna Kharge’s son Priyanka Kharge and former Chief Minister Dharam Singh’s son Ajay Singh.

From BJP, the Chief Minister Jagadish Shetter, Deputy Chief Ministers R Ashoka and Eeshwarappa are in fray. B S Yeddyurappa from KJP is also contesting from Shikaripura constituency. From JD(S) State party President Kumaraswamy, former minister H D Revanna are in fray. There are also sitting MPs and retired IAS, IPS officers and cine stars in fray. The Chief Electoral Officer has indicated that most of the results will be known by tomorrow noon.