A faction of Karnataka BJP leaders, led by MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi and MP K Sudhakar, is set to meet top party leaders in Delhi on Monday to press for the removal of state unit president BY Vijayendra. The group, which includes former legislators Kumar Bangarappa and Aravind Limbavali, has accused Vijayendra of sidelining senior leaders and promoting dynastic politics within the state unit.
The campaign against Vijayendra, initiated by Vijayapura MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, has gained momentum, with several prominent leaders, including former Karnataka Chief Minister DV Sadananda Gowda, backing the demand for a leadership change. The dissenting leaders claim that Vijayendra, the son of former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, is fostering a culture of favoritism and undermining the party’s principles.
Before departing for Delhi, Jarkiholi and Bangarappa visited the Chamundeshwari temple in Mysuru to seek blessings for the success of their mission. “Our matter has now reached Delhi. I will let you know about the decision that will be taken there,” Sudhakar told reporters, hinting at the high-stakes nature of their meeting with the central leadership.
Yatnal has been particularly vocal in his criticism, accusing Vijayendra and his father of promoting dynastic politics, which he claims is against the BJP’s national stance. “Dynastic politics is gaining credence in the Karnataka unit, and this is unacceptable,” Yatnal said, adding that the party must uphold its commitment to meritocracy and inclusivity.