Patil Yatnal entry triggers dissent in BJP

Belagavi: The recent induction of former Union minister and MLC Basangouda Patil Yatnal  into the BJP has triggered dissent in the party with senior leaders, including Jagadish Shettar, Pralhad Joshi, Ramesh Jigajinagi, Appu Pattanshetti and several RSS leaders opposed to his entry. BJP President Amit Shah had ignored the opposition voiced by these leaders and had inducted Yatnal to appease the dominant Lingayat community which played a key role in electing Yatnal as MLC. His hardcore pro-Hindu image and the massive support of Lingayats, helped Yatnal rejoin BJP braving the opposition.

Shah is believed to have agreed to give Vijayapura ticket to Yatnal besides assuring his elevation as district minister if the BJP comes to power. However, many BJP leaders, except state unit chief B.S. Yeddyurappa, are opposed to giving any key position to Yatnal and do not want him to be fielded from Vijayapura while contending that former minister Appu Pattanshetti is an ideal candidate.

Meanwhile, attempts by a section of BJP leaders in Bengaluru on Friday to patch up differences between Yatnal and Pattanshetti failed as both stuck to their demand for Vijayapura ticket.