Congress is considering shifting its Madhya Pradesh MLAs to Karnataka amid fears of cross-voting after the BJP fielded
June 9, 2026: A political battle is intensifying in Madhya Pradesh ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections, with the Congress adopting precautionary measures to prevent possible cross-voting and defections. According to party sources, Congress is planning to move its MLAs to Karnataka, where it is currently in power, to keep its legislators united during the election process.
The contest became more competitive after the BJP fielded three candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls, while Congress nominated senior leader Meenakshi Natarajan. With three seats available and four candidates in the race, political calculations have become increasingly important. In the 229-member Assembly, a candidate requires 58 votes to win. The BJP has 164 MLAs, while Congress holds 64 seats, giving the opposition enough numbers to secure one seat on paper.
However, the BJP’s decision to enter an additional candidate has raised concerns within Congress over possible political manoeuvring. Congress leaders have accused the ruling party of attempting to influence legislators and have described the election as a contest of ideology and democratic principles. As polling approaches, both parties are closely monitoring developments, making the Rajya Sabha election one of the most closely watched political contests in the state.