The Upper Krishna Project became a major political issue during the Bagalkot Assembly by-election campaign. The project has long been associated with irrigation, land acquisition and rehabilitation issues in the region. Political parties used the election campaign to highlight their positions on development connected with the project. Compensation for families affected by land acquisition was among the issues discussed by candidates. The proposed next phase of the Upper Krishna Project also attracted political attention. Congress leaders highlighted development and welfare-related issues during their campaign. BJP leaders also raised questions concerning implementation and local development. Farmers and project-affected families remained an important voter group in the constituency. The campaign provided political parties with an opportunity to discuss long-standing regional concerns. Water resources and irrigation are particularly important subjects in the Bagalkot region. Better infrastructure and connectivity were also included in election discussions. The proposed government medical college was another major development issue. Political leaders held meetings and rallies to reach voters across the constituency. Senior Congress leaders including Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar participated in the campaign. BJP leaders also mobilised their party organisation for the election. The contest between Umesh Meti and Veeranna Charantimath attracted significant public attention. Voters considered local development alongside party politics while making their choice. The election ultimately ended with Congress retaining the Bagalkot Assembly seat. Umesh Meti defeated BJP candidate Veeranna Charantimath in the final result. The campaign demonstrated how major development projects continue to influence political discussions in Bagalkot.