Mangaluru: In a strategic move that holds significant implications for the political dynamics of Karnataka, BY Vijayendra assumes charge as the state BJP president.
The 47-year-old leader presently serves as the state vice president of the BJP and holds the position of MLA from Shikaripura. Familiar with the intricacies of the party, he enjoys personal acumen, fortified by his father's support and backing from the community. "Vijayendra's strength emanates from the potent combination of his father's legacy and the influential Lingayat community. Bestowing this responsibility upon a young leader ensures the ability to attract the youth, and being Yediyurappa's son further solidifies the party's bond with the Lingayats, a strong community in the state.
With Vijayendra assuming the role of state president, Yediyurappa is sure to actively engage in political activities, infusing a renewed spirit among party members, particularly the strong party worker base that has long regarded Yediyurappa as their unwavering leader," a senior leader told Deccan Chronicle.
While appointing a youthful leader to such a significant post could have posed challenges, Vijayendra's lineage ensures a lack of dissent among senior party members. In the last assembly election, the Congress successfully portrayed the BJP as anti-Lingayat, capitalizing on the removal of Yediyurappa from the CM post. However, BJP leaders are optimistic that Vijayendra's appointment will rectify the situation, particularly in North Karnataka, where the party struggled in the previous election.
Strategically, the BJP has aligned itself with the JD(S), fostering strength in South Karnataka. The Lingayat factor is anticipated to play a pivotal role in solidifying the party's position in the North districts.
Beyond community dynamics, the BJP anticipates that Vijayendra's leadership will dissuade discontented leaders and MLAs from leaving the party. Many had joined under 'Operation Kamala' during Yediyurappa's tenure, and now, with the BJP out of power in the state, there is speculation of their return to their original party. Some have openly expressed their unhappiness. Vijayendra's ascendancy is seen as a deterrent to any such exodus.
A strategic thinker closely aligned with Yediyurappa, Vijayendra faces the crucial task of proving his mettle with upcoming elections, including the parliamentary elections and also Zilla Panchayat, Gram Panchayat, and ULB elections in the next two years. His tenure as state president is poised to be a critical juncture for the BJP in Karnataka's political landscape.
