Speculations of a leadership change in Karnataka BJP have once again intensified. Questions are being raised on state president BY Vijayendra over the party's performance in the state and failure to corner the opposition. Vijayendra is the son of former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa and was made the state president in May 2023. But now many senior party leaders seem dissatisfied with his leadership, raising the possibility of change in the organization.
State unit of BJP is constantly facing criticism
The state unit of BJP is constantly facing criticism that it is not able to corner the Congress government like a strong opposition. BJP has missed many opportunities to corner the Congress government on issues like caste survey, corruption allegations and law and order. The central leadership is not happy on account of this inaction. Senior leaders like DV Sadananda Gowda have already publicly raised the issue of factionalism and discontent in the party.
Vijayendra comes from the Lingayat community
BY Vijayendra comes from the Lingayat community, which has been a strong vote bank of Karnataka BJP. This is the reason why it is not easy for the central leadership to remove him. If he is removed, it may lead to the displeasure of the Lingayat community, which may prove to be heavy for the party in the 2026 electoral maths. However, Vijayendra claims that he has done a good job as the state president and the Delhi visit was also due to personal reasons.
BJP expeled rebel leader BP Yatnal
BJP has recently given a strong message by expelling rebel leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal from the party, but this did not indicate that Vijayendra will be removed. The party now has to elect a new state president, so it will be interesting to see whether the high command makes any major changes or an attempt will be made to strengthen the organization by improving the leadership.
It will be very difficult for the central leadership to remove Vijayendra as it may lead to the displeasure of the Lingayat community, which is considered its trusted supporter in Karnataka. Vijayendra comes from this community. Now it remains to be seen whether the BJP leadership will make changes in the organization of Karnataka or Vijayendra will continue on the post of president.
Prakash Kumar Pandey