BJP's Karnataka in-charge Arun Singh, who landed in Bengaluru on Wednesday evening, met several leaders and legislators of the party individually amid speculations over replacing Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa. However, Singh on Thursday 'clarified' that there was no discussion on leadership change in the southern state.
"I didn't discuss with MLAs anything about the leadership. I want to clarify that there are 2-3 MLAs who are acting in a way that's harming the party's image. State BJP chief & other leaders are keeping a record of their statements," said Arun Singh. "We're gathering their record. I appeal to them to keep in mind that their statements should not hurt the party," he added.
Regarding MLC H Vishwanath's statement, the saffron party's Karnataka in-charge said the leader is new in the party and is not aware of the party culture. "As far as the statement of MLA Vishwanath is concerned, we've made it clear that he is new & is not aware of the party culture," Singh said.
Earlier in the day, Vishwanath termed Yediyurappa's leadership as "lacking spirit or strength". "We respect the leadership and contribution of Yediyurappaji. But now he has not got that spirit, that strength to run the government because of the age and health factor," he said. "All ministers are unhappy with the Yediyurappa government," he said after his meeting with Arun Singh.
According to a report, Vishwanath also alleged "continuous interference" by the Yediyurappa family in the government. "Modiji is constantly telling us dynastic rule is dangerous. What is going on in Karnataka is the same thing. The Karnataka BJP has forgotten Modiji. I told him (Arun Singh) public opinion about the government is becoming negative," he said.
State Tourism Minister CP Yogeeshwara had also said that instead of the Chief Minister, his son has been ruling and controlling the Ministries of Karnataka.
