BENGALURU, 6 FEB

Amid a factional rift within the state unit, Karnataka BJP president BY Vijayendra on Thursday expressed displeasure about senior party leaders not stopping some others from making "humiliating" comments against his father and veteran leader BS Yediyurappa.

Vijayendra’s statement seems to be directed at several senior party leaders who are seen as "neutral" and not part of any faction in the party.

The factional rift within the party came to light when a group of leaders Vijayendra publicly levelled allegations against him and demanded his removal from the part post, while another group supported him and sought expulsion of those damaging the party’s image by openly expressing discontent.

"The state (BJP) president election or selection process may happen any moment. There are indications that the whole process will be completed by 20 February. I have noticed the statements being made by some leaders. I have not reacted to them as it may cause embarrassment to the party and its workers," Vijayendra said.

Stating that he is not bothered by what others, especially seniors in the party are speaking against him, he said, "But, it is unfortunate that low-level language is being used against Yediyurppa, a leader who has built this (state unit of the) party. And sitting quiet looking at all of this is also a sin."

Noting that Yediyurappa has been repeatedly humiliated and disrespected during the past year, Vijayendra said, “Whoever may be making statements against him, but it is unfortunate that no one tried to stop them, by saying that it is wrong.”

"I request the seniors in the party to at least now try to stop those making statements against Yediyurappa," he said, adding, "I'm pained both as (state BJP) president and Yediyurappa's son that leaders who are neutral and others are not stopping those commenting against the veteran leader."