Growing rift between Karnataka BJP leaders raises concerns

CH NEWS

Shyam Sundar Vattam

A growing rift between Karnataka BJP State President BY Vijendra and Leader of the Opposition in the State Legislative Assembly R Ashoka, has come to the fore, highlighting the lack of coordination on key issues, including the ongoing statewide agitation against the ruling Congress government.

Supporters of Vijayendra have accused Ashoka of showing a soft corner towards the ruling Congress, particularly Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Reports suggest that several supporters have written to the party high command, criticising Ashoka's performance in the Assembly, describing him as a non-performer who has failed to effectively challenge the government.

Key concerns raised include Ashoka's lacklustre handling of major issues such as the honeytrap scandal, questionable land dealings, price hikes, and commission scams. Instead of taking these matters to their logical conclusion, Ashoka allegedly led only symbolic protests, allowing the Congress government to escape unscathed. His critics even allege that Ashoka appears to be acting under the influence of Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

The ferocity once displayed by the opposition during HD Kumaraswamy's time is now seen as missing, leading to the perception that the BJP’s fight in the legislature has lost momentum. The absence of strong leaders following the party’s decision to send stalwarts like Jagadish Shettar, Basavaraj Bommai, and Kumaraswamy to the Lok Sabha has further weakened the party. Leaders like CT Ravi and P Rajeev, who could have taken up the mantle, lost their seats in the 2023 Assembly elections.

While MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal was once considered a strong contender for the opposition leader’s post, his repeated verbal attacks against both state and national leadership cost him that opportunity. Though Ashoka’s shortcomings have been flagged to the BJP high command, the party appears unable to act swiftly, bogged down by fast-paced developments at the national level and the lack of viable alternatives, especially after Yatnal’s expulsion.

Former Minister KS Eshwarappa, who was denied a ticket from Shivamogga due to internal ego clashes, is seen by some as a better choice for the role than Ashoka.

If the BJP hopes to regain power in Karnataka, many believe the party high command must address the leadership vacuum sooner rather than later.