The Struggles Of Karnataka BJP

Karnataka Is Looking Towards The BJP For Answers

Dear Reader,

The Karnataka BJP has remained uninspiring ever since it lost the 2023 assembly elections.

My colleague Sharan, in his piece, contends that corruption, disloyalty of leaders, perceived disrespect to B S Yediyurappa (BSY), and anti-incumbency had hurt the party.

On the other hand, Congress led by Siddaramaiah won with the help of 5 freebie guarantees — free rice, electricity, bus rides, and financial support to women and unemployed youth.

B Y Vijayendra took over as BJP state chief, boosting the party's performance in Lok Sabha polls but still lacked his father B S Yediyurappa's pull.

• Yediyurappa has left a leadership void for the BJP in the Lingayat community.

• Leadership gap due to lack of strong, grassroots leaders like Ananth Kumar and C T Ravi.

Recent controversial remarks from the likes of Anantkumar Hegde, Tejasvi Surya, and Prathap Simha have only damaged the party’s image — coming across as more 'communal' and 'provocative'.

Voters expectations from the BJP include a vision for the state.

• But no plans are in sight for economic growth, development in underdeveloped districts, and infrastructure projects like the Bengaluru-Mangaluru highway.

• No clear roadmap for Bengaluru’s future as the city approaches its 500th anniversary.

Internal strife is another issue. Yediyurappa's family’s dominance has caused friction within the party and figures like K S Eshwarappa feel sidelined.

Women are nowhere to be seen in Karnataka BJP. Apart from Sobha Karandlaje, there is not a single woman who is as empowered as she is.

• There are many in the party, like Malavika Avinash, Surabhi Hodigere, and ground-level karyakartas who are extremely capable and talented, but are rarely recognised for their work.

BJP has also failed to capitalise on the current challenges that Congress government is facing in the state. There is palpable public dissatisfaction due to rising fuel and milk prices, dengue cases, and a tainted image of corruption.

• How many BJP leaders spoke up against actor Darshan when he was arrested? None.

Read this piece by Sharan Setty in full for a detailed analysis on the need for serious introspection and reforms in Karnataka BJP to regain public trust and avoid further electoral setbacks.

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Until tomorrow then,

Anmol N Jain