Hyderabad: 21 June, Posted at 2:22 PM IST
The Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka is facing internal unrest after allegations of cross-voting during the recent Legislative Council elections. The controversy has prompted the party leadership to initiate an inquiry and consider disciplinary action against legislators suspected of voting against the party line.
The Karnataka Legislative Council elections produced disappointing results for the BJP and its ally, Janata Dal (Secular). The ruling Congress secured five of the seven available seats, while the BJP won only two seats and the JD(S) failed to win any.
Following the results, allegations emerged that several opposition legislators may have voted in favor of Congress candidates, contributing to the unexpected outcome.
Karnataka BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra publicly acknowledged that three BJP legislators allegedly cross-voted during the election. He also stated that one vote cast by the party was declared invalid.
The BJP leadership has constituted a fact-finding committee headed by senior leader C.T. Ravi to investigate the matter. The committee has been asked to identify those responsible and submit its findings by June 25.
Vijayendra stated that party workers have expressed disappointment over the reported cross-voting. He said the incident has caused concern among party cadres and leaders.
According to political sources, the BJP is considering convening a legislative party meeting at Dharmasthala, a prominent religious town in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district. Reports suggest that party legislators may be asked to affirm their loyalty before the deity at the historic temple town. Dharmasthala is known for its centuries-old temple and is regarded as an important religious and cultural center in Karnataka.
Although no official announcement has confirmed that legislators will be asked to take an oath, discussions within the party have reportedly focused on measures aimed at restoring confidence among party workers and leadership.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stated that the BJP high command is taking the issue seriously. He indicated that disciplinary action may be taken against those found responsible after the committee submits its report.
Political observers view the controversy as a significant challenge for the BJP in Karnataka, particularly at a time when the party is attempting to strengthen its organization following recent electoral setbacks.
The outcome of the inquiry and any subsequent disciplinary measures may have implications for the party’s internal unity and future political strategy in the state. The BJP leadership is expected to brief the party high command after reviewing the committee’s findings.
Raftaar e Deccan Newsdesk is the central editorial desk of Raftaar e Deccan, responsible for compiling, editing, and publishing breaking news, official statements, and verified inputs from reporters and agencies.
