Clarity Ahead: B.Y. Vijayendra on BJP Infighting in Karnataka
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Synopsis
Amidst rising calls for his ousting as State BJP Chief, B.Y. Vijayendra assures clarity will emerge in the coming days. He emphasizes party unity and the support he has received from the majority of BJP leaders.
Key Takeaways
- B.Y. Vijayendra asserts his leadership is supported by the majority.
- Internal party discussions focused on unity and strategies for future elections.
- Concerns raised about disrespect towards senior leaders like B. S. Yediyurappa.
- Discontent from a few leaders does not reflect the overall party sentiment.
- Plans for upcoming elections and maintaining party cohesion were emphasized.
Shivamogga, Jan 23 (NationPress) In light of the ongoing calls for his removal as State BJP President, B. Y. Vijayendra stated on Thursday that everything will become apparent in the approaching days.
Speaking to reporters in Shivamogga, Vijayendra remarked, "Our party members have expressed gratitude for my contributions. It is normal for some individuals to voice dissatisfaction; however, this discontent does not pertain to my leadership. We function within a democratic framework. Elections for district president roles are currently in progress, and the election for the state president will follow. Answers to all concerns will be provided soon."
"A handful of senior members have been vocal against me. Recently, BJP National General Secretary Radha Mohan Das Agarwal, party co-in-charge Sudhakar Reddy, and Ponn Radhakrishnan were present at a meeting attended by around 55-60 MLAs, MLCs, and MPs. According to reports in the media, 80-90 percent of attendees expressed their support for my leadership and acknowledged my efforts as state president," he stated.
"Certain leaders have disrespected senior figure and former Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa with derogatory remarks for over a year. This has caused significant distress among our workers. We will bring these matters to the attention of our national leadership to ensure they are addressed," he asserted.
Regarding former minister and party member B. Sriramulu, who allegedly threatened to resign following criticism during the meeting, Vijayendra commented, "I have noted Sriramulu's remarks in the media about the core committee meeting. Sriramulu is a respected senior leader. During the meeting, we discussed the importance of unity in the presence of National General Secretary Radha Mohan Das, focusing on strategies to restore BJP's majority in power."
"We will not publicize these discussions. Sriramulu should also avoid creating any misinterpretation. Let us collaborate and progress together," he added.
In the meantime, the Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly R. Ashoka stated, "Together with former CM and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai, I will speak with Sriramulu. There are no distinct factions within our party. I have not lodged any complaint against State President B.Y. Vijayendra to the high command, despite media reports suggesting otherwise."
"There has been no separate gathering or identification based on caste, such as Vokkaligas conducting exclusive meetings. This is also misinformation," he clarified.
Sources indicate that senior leaders Ramesh Jarkiholi, Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, and others have initiated a revolt against Vijayendra's leadership, with plans to nominate former MLA Kumar Bangarappa against him.
