Bengaluru: The ongoing factional feud within the Karnataka BJP has prompted both rival groups to approach the party high command, seeking an end to the internal discord.

During a review meeting held in Bengaluru, BJP state in-charge Dr. Radha Mohan Das Agarwal noted widespread dissatisfaction over indiscipline and public statements made by party leaders.

Though not all elected representatives attended the meeting, those present emphasized the need to resolve the infighting. A majority voiced their support for incumbent state president B.Y. Vijayendra, while Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan was entrusted with overseeing the state presidential elections.

Dr. Agarwal, accompanied by co-in-charge Sudhakar Reddy and organizational observer Pon Radhakrishnan, conducted the meeting as part of the BJP’s organizational review process.

Key Developments

Support for Vijayendra: Most attendees backed Vijayendra’s leadership, highlighting his experience and success in strengthening the party. The faction called for disciplinary action against dissenters and urged the high command to ensure internal unity.

Dissent from Yatnal’s Camp: Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and his faction were notably absent. Senior leaders, including C.C. Patil, Sunil Kumar, Suresh Kumar, Abhay Patil, and C.T. Ravi, along with 15 MPs, skipped the meeting. Among those who attended, B.P. Harish was the only voice critical of Vijayendra, though his supporters outnumbered detractors.

Grievances from Both Sides:

Vijayendra Camp: Argued that Vijayendra’s leadership has proven successful and demanded an end to his dismissal as inexperienced. They sought disciplinary action against Yatnal’s camp and criticized senior leaders for making unwarranted comments.

Yatnal Camp: Called for action against those accused of disloyalty during the Lok Sabha elections and demanded the expulsion of leaders like M.P. Renukacharya. They stressed the importance of collective efforts in upcoming Zilla Panchayat and Taluk Panchayat elections.

Agarwal’s Assurance

Dr. Agarwal urged attendees to voice their concerns either during the meeting or in private. He assured them that all grievances would be conveyed to the high command, leaving several questions about the future leadership unanswered.

“This meeting is part of the organizational review. Matters concerning the state president’s election or changes should be taken up with Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who is overseeing the process,” clarified Dr. Agarwal.