Karnataka Minister M P Renukacharya on Saturday warned against any conspiracy to remove state BJP president B Y Vijayendra, asserting that the party chief earned his position on merit and not because he is the son of former chief minister B S Yediyurappa.
Renukacharya breaks silence to defend Vijayendra
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Renukacharya said he would break his vow of silence to counter attempts to undermine Vijayendra's leadership. He alleged that certain individuals within the party were working to destabilize the state unit by targeting its president.
"I have maintained silence for a long time, but I will now break my vow of silence to expose those conspiring against Vijayendra. He did not become state president because he is Yediyurappa's son. He earned it through hard work and dedication to the party," Renukacharya said.
Allegations of internal sabotage
The minister did not name any specific individuals but hinted at a coordinated effort to weaken the BJP in Karnataka ahead of upcoming elections. He urged party workers to remain united and not fall prey to divisive tactics.
"Some people are trying to create confusion and weaken the party. We must identify and isolate such elements. Vijayendra has the full support of the majority of party workers and leaders," he added.
Vijayendra's rise in the party
B Y Vijayendra, son of veteran BJP leader and former chief minister B S Yediyurappa, was appointed as the state BJP president in November 2023. His elevation was seen as a move to consolidate the Yediyurappa faction and prepare the party for the 2024 Lok Sabha and 2025 assembly elections.
Since taking charge, Vijayendra has focused on strengthening the party's grassroots network and resolving internal conflicts. However, his leadership has faced criticism from some quarters who question his experience and ability to lead the party independently.
Political reactions
Renukacharya's comments come amid speculation of a rift within the Karnataka BJP. Some party insiders have suggested that a section of leaders is unhappy with Vijayendra's style of functioning and wants a change in leadership.
When contacted, state BJP spokesperson said the party is united under Vijayendra's leadership and dismissed any talk of conspiracy as baseless. "The party is fully behind our president. Such claims are the work of those who want to create trouble," the spokesperson said.
Impact on Karnataka politics
Political analysts see Renukacharya's strong statement as an attempt to rally support for Vijayendra and send a message to dissenters. The BJP is currently the main opposition party in Karnataka, having lost power to the Congress in the 2023 assembly elections.
The party is gearing up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where it hopes to win most of the 28 seats in the state. Any internal turmoil could hamper its prospects, making unity a top priority for the leadership.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on how the party high command in Delhi will respond to the brewing discontent in the Karnataka unit.
