The Next Chief Minister: A Puzzling Question for Karnataka BJP
Synopsis
As political dynamics shift in Karnataka, BJP's B.Y. Vijayendra hints at a possible resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The crucial question of his successor remains unanswered, fueling speculation and curiosity in the state's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
Vijayendra predicts Siddaramaiah's resignation.
Next Chief Minister remains an unanswered question.
BJP confident of winning upcoming bye-elections.
Concerns raised over local body elections and funding losses.
Criticism aimed at Congress for lack of development.
Kalaburagi, March 20 (NationPress) In response to inquiries about the so-called “dinner politics” involving the ruling Congress, State BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra revealed that party MLAs have indicated that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is likely to resign. However, the identity of the next Chief Minister remains an intriguing question, he noted.
Addressing reporters on Friday, he stated, “During our recent discussions with ruling party MLAs at Vidhana Soudha, they conveyed their confidence in a clear outcome, asserting that the Chief Minister will definitely step down. Yet, the million-dollar question of who will succeed him is one that must be answered by them.”
Vijayendra expressed optimism regarding the BJP's prospects in the upcoming bye-elections for both Assembly constituencies, projecting a significant victory margin.
He also addressed a query about candidate selection, confirming that the BJP high command has declared candidates for the Bagalkote and Davanagere South Assembly seats. Former MLA Veeranna Charantimath will contest from Bagalkote, while Srinivas Das Kariyappa will represent Davanagere South, he explained.
“Our party workers are extremely motivated. We see a clear desire among voters to hold the current Congress government accountable for its perceived anti-poor and anti-people policies, and they are eager to ensure a BJP victory,” he remarked.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the BJP had raised concerns regarding the conduct of Zilla Panchayat and Taluk Panchayat elections in the Assembly recently.
“It’s well-known who holds power from the Panchayat level up to Parliament in Kalyana Karnataka. Yet, we have seen a lack of developmental progress. Moreover, the Congress has undermined the Panchayat Raj system,” he claimed, directing criticism at AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and his son, Minister for IT, BT, and RDPR Priyank Kharge, who are from Kalaburagi.
He further noted that the failure to conduct local body elections has resulted in the state missing out on approximately Rs 14,000–15,000 crore in funds from the Centre. “This starkly illustrates how the state government's approach has hindered progress,” he asserted.
He mentioned that the Assembly had discussed the annual losses of Rs 14,000–15,000 crore stemming from the postponement of local body elections. “We still hope that reason prevails and that the state government moves forward with conducting these elections,” he added.
Point of View
The ongoing political developments in Karnataka, particularly regarding the potential resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, underscore a significant shift in the state's governance. The BJP's confidence in upcoming elections reflects broader sentiments about local governance and accountability.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did B.Y. Vijayendra say about Siddaramaiah's resignation?
He indicated that party MLAs believe Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will resign, but who will succeed him remains uncertain.
Who are the BJP candidates for the upcoming bye-elections?
Former MLA Veeranna Charantimath will contest from Bagalkote, and Srinivas Das Kariyappa will represent Davanagere South.
What concerns did Vijayendra raise regarding local elections?
He emphasized the negative impact of not conducting local body elections on the state's development and funding.
How does the BJP view the current Congress government?
The BJP criticizes the Congress government for being anti-poor and lacking developmental initiatives.
What financial implications did Vijayendra mention?
He noted that the state has lost approximately Rs 14,000–15,000 crore in funds due to the failure to conduct local body elections.
