Narendra Modi: The Prime Minister remains the biggest vote-catcher for the BJP. Attendance at the rallies was impressive and his spirited attacks on the Congress helped the BJP build a narrative against the incumbent. The Lingayat consolidation helped BJP regain its hold on north Karnataka, which the Congress dominated the last time around. As agriculture minister and subsequently as the chief minister, Yeddyurappa is credited with initiating several welfare schemes for farmers. BJP chief Amit Shah’s election management skills were at work too.

Source: Hindustan Times May 15, 2018 12:25 UTC