The bypolls were held on April 9, following the deaths of senior Congress MLAs H Y Meti and Shamanur Shivashankarappa. The Congress has fielded family members of the late legislators in both constituencies, with Umesh Meti, the son of H Y Meti, contesting from Bagalkot, and Samarth Mallikarjun, the grandson of Shamanur Shivashankarappa, contesting from Davanagere South. The BJP has fielded former MLA Veerabhadrayya Charantimath from Bagalkot and a fresh face, Srinivas T Dasakariyappa, from Davanagere South.

The outcome of the bypolls is unlikely to have an immediate impact on state politics, but it is seen as a matter of prestige for both parties. The Congress faces the challenge of retaining both seats, while the BJP aims to wrest them and deliver a setback to the ruling party. The results may also have implications for the state's political landscape, including a potential leadership change and cabinet reshuffle.

The voter turnout in both constituencies was significant, with 68.74% of voters casting their ballots in Bagalkot and 68.43% in Davanagere South. The counting of votes will begin at 8 am on May 4, with the clear picture likely to emerge by mid-day. Adequate security arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the counting and to ensure that no untoward incidents happen during or after the declaration of results.

The BJP is looking to make gains in the bypolls and energize its cadre ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections. For the Congress, retaining both seats is crucial, as a loss could be seen as a negative verdict on the performance of the Siddaramaiah-led government. The party is also facing disgruntlement from the Muslim community in Davanagere South, which could potentially split votes and benefit the BJP.

The results of the bypolls will be closely watched, with implications for the state's political landscape and the future of the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP. The outcome may also have implications for individual leaders, including Housing Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan, who may face disciplinary measures during the next cabinet reshuffle. The situation is complex, with multiple factors at play, and the results will likely have a significant impact on the state's politics in the coming months.