Expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal issued a direct challenge to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday. He demanded Shivakumar prove his political strength in the North Karnataka region.
Yatnal Questions Shivakumar's Popularity
Speaking to reporters in Vijayapura, Yatnal stated that power demonstrations have become essential in modern politics. He argued that leaders must showcase their influence to gain recognition.
"If we don't show it, our leadership quality won't be recognised," Yatnal declared. He pointed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as an example of someone possessing the capability to organize such displays in North Karnataka.
A Direct Challenge to the Deputy CM
Yatnal then turned his attention directly to Shivakumar. "If Shivakumar has that power, let him show it here," he challenged. The expelled MLA referenced a recent Vijayapura event where he claimed Shivakumar failed to connect with the audience.
"He did not get any response from the audience at the Vijayapura programme," Yatnal observed. He emphasized that genuine popularity cannot be purchased through political maneuvering. "He should understand that popularity can't be bought, but can only be gained," Yatnal asserted.
On BJP Leadership and By-Election Support
When journalists asked about potential reshuffling within the state BJP leadership, Yatnal deferred to the party's national figures. He expressed confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah's judgment.
"They are ruling the whole country, and they are well-versed in such things," Yatnal stated regarding leadership decisions. He confirmed his continued allegiance to the BJP regarding the upcoming Bagalkot bypoll.
"I am in direct touch with the high command," Yatnal claimed. He pledged to campaign actively for the BJP candidate if officially requested by the party leadership.
Demand for CBI Investigation
Yatnal also raised concerns about the Ballari banner conflict case. He demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry, expressing skepticism about the state's Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
"The CID will give a clean chit to the accused, as it did in the Mysuru Muda case," Yatnal predicted. He argued that only a central agency could ensure a impartial investigation into the matter.
The political landscape in Karnataka remains charged as these exchanges between prominent figures continue to unfold. Yatnal's public challenge adds another layer to the ongoing political dynamics within the state.
