Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Mar 27: Senior BJP leaders in Karnataka have rallied behind expelled MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, urging the party high command to review its decision and reinstate him.
Yatnal, known for his vocal criticism of state BJP chief B Y Vijayendra and former chief minister B S Yediyurappa, was expelled from the party for six years. The move, announced on Wednesday, has sparked a wave of support for the leader from within the party.
Former minister and BJP MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi stated that he had already approached the party leadership over the issue. “Yatnal has contributed significantly to the party’s growth. This expulsion serves as a warning to his critics as well. I am confident he will return,” he said.
Jarkiholi refrained from naming those responsible for Yatnal’s removal but assured, “He is not alone in this. We stand by him.”
Expressing his surprise, Jarkiholi added, “He is a senior leader, and I do not understand why this decision was made. However, we will convene in Bengaluru, advise Yatnal to submit an appeal to the high command, and request a reconsideration.”
Meanwhile, former minister B Sriramulu emphasized Yatnal’s prominence as a Hindutva leader and his deep-rooted connection with the Lingayat community.
“His expulsion has upset Hindu activists across Karnataka. While the party stands above individuals, his removal weakens the BJP. I urge the leadership to rethink this decision,” Sriramulu said.
Basava Jaya Mrutyunjaya Swamiji of Kudala Sangama Lingayat Panchamasali Mutt noted that many in Karnataka had envisioned Yatnal as a potential chief ministerial candidate for 2028.
“He was seen as a leader who could guide the party to victory. Unfortunately, vested interests could not tolerate his rise, just as they sidelined leaders like the late B B Shivappa and Umesh Katti,” the Swamiji remarked.
He further added that Yatnal had always opposed "adjustment politics" and warned that his expulsion should not be seen as a moment of triumph for his opponents.
“If the BJP leadership values the respect and trust of the community, they must find a way to resolve this issue. It is crucial to initiate discussions and revoke this decision,” he said.
Former minister Murugesh Nirani acknowledged that party discipline is paramount but pointed out that Yatnal had been expelled before and later reinstated.
“No one is above the party high command. However, speaking against senior leaders is inappropriate. Even chief ministers have been removed before. B S Yediyurappa built this party through decades of dedication. It is due to his efforts and the late H N Ananth Kumar that we could serve as ministers. Despite everything, Yatnal’s expulsion should not be permanent, and the leadership must consider revoking it soon,” Nirani said.