The internal discord within the Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party has escalated, following the issuance of a show-cause notice to senior leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal by the party’s central disciplinary committee. Despite this disciplinary action, Yatnal and his supporters remain steadfast in their demand for a leadership change, challenging the authority of incumbent state president B.Y. Vijayendra.
Yatnal, a prominent MLA from Vijayapura, has been vocal in his criticism of Vijayendra’s leadership. He alleges that Vijayendra, who assumed the role of state president in November 2023, has been favouring leaders aligned with his father, former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, thereby sidelining other senior party members. In response to his outspoken remarks, the party’s central disciplinary committee issued a show-cause notice, citing his “continuing tirade against the state-level party leadership” and “defiance of party directives.”
Undeterred by the disciplinary action, Yatnal’s faction continues to press for an internal election to determine the party’s next state president. They argue that a democratic process would ensure fair representation and address the growing dissent within the party ranks. This stance is bolstered by statements from leaders like former minister Kumar Bangarappa, who recently asserted that a leadership change in the Karnataka BJP is inevitable.
Vijayendra, on his part, has dismissed the allegations and expressed confidence in retaining his position. He emphasizes that district presidents are elected democratically within the party and denies any unilateral decision-making in appointments. Vijayendra’s supporters highlight his efforts in strengthening the party’s base, including successful membership drives and public mobilization campaigns.
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