Thu Jan 09 16:36:30 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka BJP’s Internal Rift Threatens Party Unity, Say Neutral Leaders

**Bengaluru, January 9, 2025** – A growing rift within the Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is causing deep concern among party leaders who identify as neutral in the ongoing feud between a rebel faction and those loyal to state president B.Y. Vijayendra. These neutral leaders, comprising the majority of the party, fear the internal struggle is severely hindering the BJP’s ability to effectively oppose the ruling Congress government.

According to several senior BJP leaders, the infighting, characterized by attacks and counter-attacks between the two factions, is preventing the party from capitalizing on issues such as alleged corruption and mismanagement within the Congress. The disunity is also undermining the party’s campaigns, as evidenced by separate and less effective campaigns against eviction notices issued to farmers by the waqf board.

A former minister highlighted the frustration of the neutral majority, stating that approximately 90% of party workers and leaders remain committed to the party itself, rather than either faction. However, their efforts are being undermined by the infighting.

While the neutral leaders have refrained from public comment to avoid exacerbating the situation, they plan to bring the issue before the central leadership soon. Their goal is not to take sides, but to urge resolution of the conflict for the sake of the party’s overall performance and future prospects in Karnataka. They intend to address the matter during the central leadership’s upcoming visit to the state. A BJP MLA emphasized the need for intervention, stating that the infighting cannot be ignored as it threatens to damage the entire party.

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