Karnataka's political equations heavily rely on caste, with the Lingayats and Vokkaligas communities wielding significant influence despite Dalits, Muslims, and OBCs forming a large part of the state’s population. Lingayats are largely BJP supporters, accounting for 17% of the population and expected to hold sway over 100 of the state’s 224 assembly seats. The Vokkaligas, forming 11% of the population, typically support Janata Dal (Secular) but have occasionally backed Congress. Both communities are politically fluid, and their support could swing either way, making their seats crucial in Karnataka's elections.
