Karnataka BJP President Supports Nalin Kumar Kateel for Lok Sabha Election

MANGALURU: Amid growing calls within the BJP for a fresh candidate from the Dakshina Kannada constituency in the upcoming Parliament election, a surprising twist has emerged with the Karnataka BJP president's statement in Mangaluru.

While addressing the party workers in Mangaluru on Wednesday, BJP state president Vijayendra urged them to throw their support behind Nalin Kumar Kateel in the forthcoming election.

Despite the growing demand within certain sections of the BJP and the public for a new face in the next election, Vijayendra's statement seems to indicate the party's inclination to field Nalin Kumar Kateel, who has served as the Member of Parliament for three consecutive terms and held the position of party state president.

Addressing party workers, Vijayendra emphasized the significance of taking the Lok Sabha election seriously. "I want to convey to the workers that we must approach the Lok Sabha election with a sense of gravity. It is crucial that we rally behind and work towards the success of our candidate, Nalin Kumar Kateel," he said.

This statement comes in the wake of openly expressed discontent against Nalin Kumar Kateel by certain leaders within the party.

A faction within the BJP is advocating for Hindutva leader Arun Puthila to enter the Parliament election either as the official BJP candidate or, in the event of party denial, as an independent candidate. It is noteworthy that during the previous assembly election, Arun contested independently in Puttur, managing to secure the second position that propelled the BJP to the third spot in the constituency, traditionally perceived as a stronghold for the party.

The unexpected stance taken by Vijayendra has added a new dimension to the internal dynamics of the BJP in the region, sparking speculation about the party's strategic plans for the upcoming parliamentary polls.