BJP Faces Internal Discontent in Karnataka Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections
Bengaluru, 20th March 2024: The BJP’s initial announcement of 20 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka has stirred discontent among state leaders, with some considering a shift to the Congress party.
Notably, former Deputy Chief Minister K S Eshwarappa, known for his strong support for the RSS, has openly rebelled against the party. His dissatisfaction stems from the exclusion of his son, K E Kantesh, from the candidate list, despite his desire for a ticket from the Haveri Lok Sabha seat. Instead, the party nominated sitting MLA and former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai for the constituency.
Expressing his discontent, Eshwarappa declared his intention to contest against B Y Vijayendra, the elder son of former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, from Shivamogga, denouncing what he perceives as ‘dynastic politics’ within the BJP in Karnataka.
In an interview, Eshwarappa criticized the state of the BJP in Karnataka, likening it to the centralized control seen in the Congress party at the national level. He voiced concerns over the sidelining of leaders advocating for Hindutva principles, including C T Ravi, Pratap Simha, Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, and Sadananda Gowda. Former Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda, initially hesitant to contest, has now expressed a strong desire to participate in the Lok Sabha elections, hinting at the possibility of joining the Congress.
Meanwhile, in Koppal, BJP MLA Karadi Sanganna denied a ticket, and has hinted at potential discussions with Congress leaders but has yet to finalize any decision. Similarly, former Karnataka Minister J C Madhuswamy, disappointed with the party’s decision to field V Somanna from Tumakuru, is contemplating his future within the BJP. As Karnataka gears up for the polls in two phases on April 26 and May 7, the BJP faces internal discord and uncertainty among its ranks, with several leaders expressing dissatisfaction and considering alternative options.
