Karnataka BJP Leaders Seek Reversal of Patil Yatnal's Expulsion
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Synopsis
Karnataka BJP leaders are rallying behind expelled MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, urging the party high command to reconsider its expulsion decision. Key figures express support, highlighting Yatnal's influence and contributions to the party. Concerns are raised over the impact of his removal on party unity and future electoral prospects.
Key Takeaways
- Support for expelled MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal.
- Concerns over the impact of his expulsion on party strength.
- Calls for unity among party leaders.
- Yatnal viewed as a potential future Chief Minister.
- Senior leaders emphasize the importance of reconsideration.
Bengaluru, March 27 (NationPress) BJP leaders in Karnataka have expressed their intention to rally behind expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and are set to urge the party's high command to rethink its verdict.
After facing years of severe criticism from MLA Yatnal directed at state chief B.Y. Vijayendra and his father, former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, the party announced on Wednesday that Yatnal would face a six-year expulsion.
Senior BJP MLA and former minister Ramesh Jarkiholi mentioned that he has communicated with the high command regarding this situation. “MLA Yatnal has been an asset to the party. This action serves as a warning to his critics as well. Yatnal will definitely return to the party,” he asserted.
Jarkiholi further stated, “I won’t disclose who is responsible for the expulsion. Yatnal is not alone; we stand united with him.”
He continued, “MLA Yatnal is a key figure within the party, and I find it perplexing why this decision was taken. While I can't question the party's decision, we will convene in Bengaluru to discuss the issue. We will encourage MLA Yatnal to draft a letter to the high command requesting a reevaluation of the decision.”
Former minister B. Sriramulu emphasized that the expelled MLA Yatnal is a significant leader in the state and comes from the Lingayat community.
“He has been a strong advocate for Hindutva, and his expulsion has left Hindu activists disheartened throughout the state. Although the party should be prioritized above any individual, I believe Yatnal’s departure will weaken our party. I urge the high command to reconsider its ruling,” Sriramulu stated.
Basava Jaya Mrutyunjaya Swamiji of the Kudala Sangama Lingayat Panchamasali Mutt remarked that the citizens of the state have already begun viewing MLA Yatnal as a potential chief minister.
“Many anticipated he would lead the party to success and rise as Chief Minister in the upcoming 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections. However, certain vested interests could not tolerate his ascent and sidelined him, similarly to what happened to the late B.B. Shivappa, eight-time MLA Umesh Katti, and others,” he shared.
He noted that Yatnal has always opposed compromise politics, adding that this is not a time for his critics to celebrate.
“If the state leaders wish to maintain the respect and affection of the community, they must come together. They need to discuss and find a way to revoke the expulsion order,” he advised.
Former Minister Murugesh Nirani stated that no one is above the high command, mentioning that MLA Yatnal has been expelled twice in the past and later reinstated by the party.
“It is inappropriate to speak against senior party leaders. Even Chief Ministers have been removed at times. Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa has dedicated over 50 years to building this party. It is due to the efforts of Yediyurappa and late former union minister H.N. Ananth Kumar that the party achieved power and we became ministers. In any case, MLA Yatnal’s expulsion should not be permanent and should be reversed promptly,” he concluded.
