As Karnataka entered the first phase of Lok Sabha polls in 14 of 28 constituencies on Friday, an estimated 38.23 per cent turnout was reported during the first half of the day. Out of 14 segments that are going to the polls today, the highest turnout of 48.10 per cent was recorded in Dakshina Kannada, followed by Udupi-Chikmagalur 46.43 per cent, and the least 30.10 per cent in Bangalore Central. The turnout was 31.51 per cent in Bangalore South, and 32.25 per cent in Bangalore North. As stated by the election officials, 38.23 per cent of the electorate in the state had cast their vote till 1 PM. Voting began at 7.00 am and will end by 6.00 pm.

In the first phase, the Congress is contesting in all 14 seats, BJP has fielded nominees in 11 and its alliance partner JD(S), which joined the National Democratic Alliance in (NDA) in September last year, in three -- Hassan, Mandya and Kolar.