Dissent Brewing Within BJP Karnataka, As Disgruntled Leaders 'Resort' To Own Plans

The BJP in Karnataka is experiencing internal strife once again, as a group of discontented leaders plans to launch a padayatra (foot march) to expose the Maharshi Valmiki Schedule Tribe Development Corporation scam.

The foot march, intended to highlight the alleged diversion of funds meant for SC/ST welfare by the ruling Congress government, will span from Kudalasangama to Ballari.

Following the conclusion of the "Mysuru Chalo" padayatra, over ten prominent BJP leaders convened a confidential meeting at a resort near Kinaye village in Belagavi taluk on Sunday.

The meeting was attended by notable figures, including MLAs Ramesh Jarkiholi and Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, former MPs Annasaheb Jolle, Pratap Simha, and G M Siddeshwara, along with former minister Aravind Limbavali and Kumar Bangarappa.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, the leaders revealed their decision to proceed with another padayatra. They expressed dissatisfaction with BJP state president B Y Vijayendra and senior leader B S Yediyurappa, hinting at the possibility of lodging a complaint with the party’s central leadership.

However, they clarified that their actions should not be construed as dissident activity.

"Before commencing the padayatra, we will hold discussions with central party leaders," they stated. "Additionally, more leaders will join us for another round of talks in Bengaluru."

The leaders emphasised that this padayatra is not limited to a single region but is a statewide effort. They also indicated plans to invite central BJP leaders to participate in the march.

"This is not an agitation to elevate one individual as a hero," Yatnal asserted, distancing the effort from personal agendas.