Karnataka Assembly Election Result 2023 Live: Hello and welcome to ABP Live on the Karnataka Assembly Election 2023 Counting Day. Follow this space to get all the latest updates, news, and reactions from the Karnataka legislative assembly election 2023 results.

The counting of votes for the Karnataka Assembly polls, held on May 10, is taking place on May 13, Saturday. The intense battle between rival parties BJP and Congress has left everyone eagerly awaiting the outcome, as the possibility of a hung assembly looms. The results will reveal the electoral fortunes of key leaders such as Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai of the BJP, Congress heavyweights Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar, and JD(S)' HD Kumaraswamy, among others.

The counting process commenced at 8 am across 36 centres throughout the state. Election officials anticipate a clearer picture of the results to emerge by mid-day. The voting on May 10 witnessed a "record" turnout of 73.19 per cent, as citizens cast their votes to elect representatives for the 224-member Assembly.

Exit polls have indicated a close competition between the Congress and BJP, causing leaders from both parties to feel anxious about the outcome. Meanwhile, the JD(S) appears to anticipate a hung verdict, which could provide an opportunity for them to play a role in government formation. The majority of pollsters have given a slight advantage to the Congress, while also acknowledging the possibility of a hung Assembly in the state.

During the vigorous and spirited campaigning that concluded on Monday, leaders from all political parties emphasized the need for a "government with a full majority." They aimed to secure a clear mandate and establish a strong and stable government, unlike the situation following the 2018 polls.

In the previous elections, the BJP emerged as the single largest party, securing 104 seats, followed by the Congress with 80 seats and JD(S) with 37 seats. Additionally, there was one independent member, while the BSP and Karnataka Pragnyavantha Janatha Party (KPJP) each secured one seat.

23:20 PM (IST) • 13 May 2023

EC Orders Recounting Of Postal Ballots In Jayanagar After BJP's Appeal

The Election Commission ordered recounting of postal ballots in Jayanagar constituency in the city where Congress candidate Sowmya Reddy is in close contest with BJP's C K Ramamurthy, reports PTI. The recounting of postal ballots was ordered following an appeal by Ramamurthy.

23:07 PM (IST) • 13 May 2023

Nitish Kumar Congratulates Congress For Sweeping Mandate

"Heartiest congratulations and good wishes to the Congress upon its victory, with a clear majority, in Karnataka assembly elections," Bihar CM Nitish Kumar congratulates Congress for its big win in Karnataka.