As the Lok Sabha elections draw nearer, the political landscape in Karnataka is heating up with verbal skirmishes among political leaders. In a significant development, former Chief Minister and senior BJP leader, B.S. Yeddyurappa, who had maintained a conspicuous silence for an extended period, has re-entered the political arena, vowing to revitalise the party’s presence in the state.
Addressing the media today, Yeddyurappa declared, “I don’t just sit at home.” He launched a scathing criticism of the Congress party, promising an extensive state-wide tour to rally support and rejuvenate the BJP’s presence. His return to active politics has sent ripples through the political spectrum.
One of the key issues Yeddyurappa highlighted is the contentious release of water from the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) dam to Tamil Nadu, despite Karnataka grappling with drought conditions. He accused the BJP’s political rivals of weaponising this issue while failing to declare an official drought in the state. In response, the BJP has announced plans to stage a widespread protest across Karnataka tomorrow.
Former CM Yeddyurappa stressed that the BJP’s protest will span all districts and taluk centres, sending a stark message to the ruling Congress party. Close associates of Yeddyurappa, including Renukacharya, have suggested that his return to active politics is crucial for rebuilding the BJP’s presence in the state. The recent meeting held at the BJP office, chaired by BL Santosh, raised eyebrows as Yeddyurappa was conspicuously absent. Speculations emerged about the intention behind excluding Yeddyurappa from the meeting. However, Yeddyurappa’s close friends have been urging him to re-engage with the party organisation.
Addressing these speculations, Yeddyurappa stated, “None of us left the party.” He also expressed his confidence in the BJP’s prospects in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, aiming to secure 22-23 seats. Furthermore, Yeddyurappa announced a state-wide protest tomorrow against what he termed as the Congress government’s failures, including allegations of corruption and neglect of development. He demanded the declaration of drought and fair compensation for past work, highlighting the plight of MLAs denied grants and the government’s alleged harassment of activists. “We will protest with 15-20 thousand people tomorrow,” Yeddyurappa declared, while cautioning that the state government would be held responsible for any deterioration in law and order resulting from the protests.
As Yeddyurappa’s return to active politics unfolds, the political landscape in Karnataka is poised for significant developments in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections.