BJP Intensifies Fight Against Karnataka Congress Government

The BJP in Karnataka is gearing up to escalate its opposition against the ruling Congress government. Key leaders, including Pralhad Joshi, Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, and Ramesh Jarkiholi, are planning a 'padayatra' to highlight alleged scams. Internal party discussions and differences over the strategy are ongoing.

The BJP is planning to step up its opposition against the Congress government in Karnataka, with senior leader and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi announcing that the party will soon decide the next phase of their agitation in consultation with national leadership.

A faction of BJP leaders, led by senior legislators Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and Ramesh Jarkiholi, is organizing a 'padayatra' (foot march) to spotlight the 'Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribe Development Corporation' scam and the alleged diversion of SC/ST welfare funds to guarantee schemes by the Congress government.

Recently, the BJP and JD(S) staged a week-long protest march from Bengaluru to Mysuru, demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment 'scam'.

Addressing reporters, Joshi confirmed that the party will make a collective decision after discussions with BJP National President J P Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He stressed unity within the party despite some internal disagreements about conducting another 'padayatra'.

The proposed march, led by a faction resentful of state BJP chief B Y Vijayendra, contrasts with a prior march to Mysuru led by Vijayendra himself. Vijayendra has expressed no objections to the new march, provided it receives approval from the central leadership.

In response to allegations against Minister Priyank Kharge concerning land allocation to a trust, Joshi mentioned that petitions have been submitted to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, who will decide on the matter soon. Joshi also criticized Congress for targeting JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy, questioning the timing and sincerity of their accusations.

(With inputs from agencies.)