People glued to TV screens to know instant results

Nanjangud – A bandh-like atmosphere prevailed in Nanjangud today as the counting of votes began. Streets were deserted and people stayed indoors watching TV.

The entire town that was a hub of activity during the Nanjangud Dodda Jathra Mahotsava last week was curious to know the outcome of the results of the first-ever by-election.

While the Nanjangud-Ooty Road where the counting centre was established was taken over by Policemen and other security forces, normal life came to a standstill on other streets too with no business activities. Shops that had TVs, however, made good business as people constantly came there to enquire about the results and in the process bought snacks, cold drinks and tobacco products.

Some shopkeepers, including flower vendors on the Temple Road, told Star of Mysore that today less people came to the famous Srikanteshwara Temple for the morning darshan when compared to other days. Those who came included political party workers who prayed for the victory of their candidates.

A giant LED screen was set up at the Congress party office on the Bus Stand Road where more than 2,000 party workers had assembled to watch the election results. As Kalale Keshavamurthy established lead round-by-round, party workers cheered and hailed the leaders including Chief Minister  Siddharamaiah.

After some time, District in-Charge Minister Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa arrived at the Congress office and waved at party workers. He too sat before the screen to watch the results.