However, counting of votes has been stayed following a High Court order in this regard. The ballot boxes have been shifted to the District Treasury. The High Court direction follows a petition filed by previous president M Shankaregowda who had challenged the election, Returning officer and Bank Manager Gopalareddy.
Three contenders
There were three contenders for the post who were supported by politicians. M Sriramareddy of former minister Srinivas Gowda camp, Muni Narayanappa and M Venkataramanappa of MLA R Varthur Prakash’s camp had filed nominations. However, Venkataramanappa withdrew the nomination later.
After scrutinising the nomination papers, election was conducted at 11 am. The bank’s administrative board has eleven members including a nominated member. The High Court will take up the matter on July 18 and the results will depend on the HC order.
However, this did not stop the celebrations at the legislator Varthur Prakash’s camp. His supporters garlanded candidate Muninarayanappa and burst fire crackers. Legislator Varthur Prakash, Rajanna, Krishnegowda, G S Amarnath, Vakkaleri Rajappa and others were present.
In the changed political scenario, Muninaryanappa who was earlier identified with former minister Srinivas Gowda had joined hands with Varthur Prakash. This turned into a battle of prestige between Srinivas Gowda and Varthur Prakash who are fielding their supporters in APMC and PLD Bank elections.
Former president Shankaregowda who is facing charges of misappropriation of money in the bank was thrown out of the president’s post. He was identified with Srinivas Gowda, earlier. By filing petition, he is trying to come back to the post, it is learnt.