As Karnataka braces for its upcoming winter session in Belgaum commencing on 4 December, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to address the long-standing absence of an opposition leader in the state. Six months after the formation of the new government, the delay in selecting an opposition leader has sparked curiosity and intense political activity within the party.
The recent appointment of BY Vijayendra, the youngest son of former CM Yeddyurappa, as the state BJP President has added a new dynamic to the unfolding political drama. Vijayendra has announced that the BJP legislative party meeting scheduled for Friday, 17 November, will witness the election of the opposition leader. Observers from the BJP high command, including National President JP Nadda, are expected to attend the meeting, heightening its significance. Former ministers Ashwatthanarayan, R Ashok, Basanagowda Patil Yatnal, and Sunil Kumar are among the frontrunners vying for the coveted position of Leader of Opposition.
The political landscape within the BJP has witnessed tensions since Vijayendra assumed the role of state president. The choice of a Lingayat, Vijayendra, for the presidency has left some party members disgruntled. The Lingayat community already holds the position of state president, leading to speculation that an Okkaliga or a representative from a backward community might be chosen as the opposition leader.
Rumors suggest that R. Ashok, Ashwath Narayan, or Sunil Kumar might emerge as the chosen candidate. The BJP high command appears keen on maintaining a balance in community representation, considering the Lingayat state president. Sunil Kumar, belonging to the backward Ediga Billava community, stands out as a potential candidate to secure votes in crucial districts.
Earlier speculations about offering the position to Kumaraswamy of the JDS were quashed, as the former Chief Minister expressed his disinterest. With former CM Basavaraja Bommai’s health concerns, the focus narrows down to the trio of R Ashok, Ashwatthanarayan, and Sunil Kumar for the opposition leader’s post.
All eyes are on the legislative party meeting this Friday, where the BJP is expected to finalize and announce its choice for the crucial role of Leader of Opposition in Karnataka. The decision holds the potential to shape the party’s future dynamics and influence political dynamics in the state.
