Bengaluru, 29 NOV

A faction of former BJP legislators in the State, led by MP Renukacharya, has urged the party’s high command to expel senior MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for his outspoken criticism of the state leadership, particularly targeting State President BY Vijayendra. Renukacharya and a group of "like-minded" leaders announced plans to organise a mega rally in Davangere soon, which is expected to showcase their political strength.

The faction, including notable figures such as Katta Subramanya Naidu, Hartal Halappa, Roopali Naik, and Basavaraj Dadesugur, is seen as supportive of Vijayendra. They intend to embark on a tour across various parts of the state starting from Kurudumale in Kolar district, visiting temples to instil confidence among party workers amidst the turmoil stirred by Yatnal's criticisms. This initiative aims to rally party support for Vijayendra and his father, veteran leader BS Yediyurappa.

Yatnal, supported by MLAs Ramesh Jarkiholi, BP Harish, and former lawmakers including Aravind Limbavali and Kumar Bangarappa, has been vocal against the state leadership, accusing them of "adjustment politics" with the ruling Congress. Yatnal and Jarkiholi have also opted to hold parallel agitations over the waqf issue, distancing themselves from recent protests by the party.

Renukacharya labelled Yatnal a "Congress agent," and expressed concerns about his public remarks, stating, "His loose talk has upset party leaders and workers. He should cease his unjustified conflicts." He urged Yatnal to clarify his relationship with national leaders while questioning why he could not accept the authority of newly appointed party leadership.

Renukacharya further asserted that Yatnal's actions contributed to the BJP's defeat in the 2023 Assembly elections, stating, "His conduct makes him culpable for our loss." He called for unity within the party, recognising Yediyurappa's role in fostering and developing party leadership, and emphasised that their actions were not personally motivated but rather for the party’s future.  –PTI