Karnataka BJP president B Y Vijayendra has suggested a unique truth test at the Dharmasthala temple to identify lawmakers who cross-voted in the recent MLC elections. The proposal comes amid allegations of cross-voting by BJP MLAs in the Legislative Council polls held on June 13, 2026.
Proposal for divine intervention
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Vijayendra said, "Those who crossed votes should go to Dharmasthala and take a pledge before Lord Manjunatha. If they lie, they will face divine wrath." He made the statement while commenting on the ongoing investigation into cross-voting.
The BJP state chief emphasized that the party is serious about maintaining discipline and that the truth will eventually come out. He added that the party has already constituted a three-member fact-finding committee to probe the matter.
Fact-finding committee details
The committee comprises MLC CT Ravi, BJP state vice-president N Mahesh, and Hubli-Dharwad Central MLA Mahesh Tenginkai. The panel has been tasked with identifying the MLAs who violated the party whip and voted in favor of opposition candidates.
According to sources, the committee has already begun its investigation and is expected to submit its report within a week. The panel is examining voting patterns and speaking to party legislators to gather evidence.
Cross-voting allegations
The MLC polls saw a surprise victory for the Congress-JD(S) coalition candidate, leading to allegations of cross-voting by BJP MLAs. The BJP had fielded its own candidate but failed to secure the expected number of votes, raising suspicions of internal sabotage.
Vijayendra stated, "We have strong indications that some of our MLAs voted against the party. This is unacceptable and we will take strict action against them." He did not name any specific individuals but hinted that the party has identified a few suspects.
Political reactions
The opposition Congress and JD(S) have mocked the BJP's proposal, calling it a stunt. Congress spokesperson Ramesh Babu said, "Instead of blaming divine tests, the BJP should introspect why its own MLAs are rebelling. This shows the lack of leadership within the party."
JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy also criticized the move, saying, "Bringing religion into politics is dangerous. The BJP should focus on democratic processes rather than superstition."
The BJP, however, remains firm on its stance. Vijayendra reiterated that the party will not tolerate indiscipline and that the truth test at Dharmasthala is a serious suggestion to uphold integrity.
