HC Declares Karnataka MLA Subba Reddy’s Election Invalid Over Nomination Irregularities

Last Updated:February 16, 2026, 17:23 IST

The case was heard over nearly two years, with Muniraju seeking both the annulment of Subba Reddy’s election and a declaration naming himself as the winner from Bagepalli.

The Karnataka High Court on Monday declared the election of Congress MLA SN Subbareddy in 2023 from the Bagepalli constituency invalid and void.

The verdict came on a petition filed by BJP candidate C Muniraju, who had approached the court alleging that Subbareddy indulged in election malpractices.

According to the petition, Subbareddy filed incorrect nomination papers and concealed details regarding his assets and liabilities during the filing process. The High Court accepted the arguments and ruled in favour of the petitioner.

The court has also issued notices to the Election Commission of India and the Vidhan Soudha secretary in connection with the matter. Further proceedings are expected based on their responses.

A Bench headed by Justice M.G.S. Kamal passed the order after hearing detailed arguments from both sides and examining reports submitted by the authorities. The court directed that a copy of the order be sent to the Election Commission and the Secretary of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

The case was heard over nearly two years. In his petition, Muniraju sought two remedies — the annulment of Subba Reddy’s election and a declaration naming himself as the winner from Bagepalli. The High Court partly allowed the plea by setting aside Subba Reddy’s election but refused to recognise Muniraju as the returned candidate.

Subba Reddy maintained that the case was politically motivated and claimed there was a conspiracy against him. After the verdict, his counsel sought a stay on the order to allow them to approach the Supreme Court in appeal, but the High Court declined to grant any relief.

Reacting to the judgment, Muniraju said he had approached the court with full faith in the judiciary and described the order as a victory for justice. He stated that the verdict had strengthened public confidence in the judicial system and was the result of effective presentation of arguments before the court.

Apart from the affidavit-related allegations, Muniraju also cited claims that Subba Reddy was facing accusations in connection with an alleged scam.

News india HC Declares Karnataka MLA Subba Reddy’s Election Invalid Over Nomination Irregularities

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