The Karnataka BJP has set up a three-member committee to investigate alleged cross-voting by BJP legislators in the recent Legislative Council elections. Despite the BJP securing two seats, all five Congress candidates emerged victorious, with the JD(S) losing. The committee, led by BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra, aims to submit its report by June 25 after a thorough inquiry.
The investigative panel includes former BJP National General Secretary C.T. Ravi, State Vice-President N. Mahesh, and MLA Mahesh Tenginakayi. Vijayendra emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating that the committee will verify the allegations of cross-voting during the elections held on June 18. The BJP leadership is concerned about reports suggesting that cross-voting may have influenced the election results in favor of the Congress candidates.
Responding to speculations about the involvement of certain BJP MLAs in cross-voting, Vijayendra dismissed these claims as attempts by the Congress to sow discord within the BJP. He reiterated the party’s reliance on the committee’s findings rather than unfounded rumors. The BJP has made it clear that any legislator found guilty of cross-voting will face disciplinary action in accordance with the committee’s report.
Vijayendra stressed the party’s commitment to addressing the issue of cross-voting seriously and mentioned seeking a meeting with the BJP’s National President Nitin Nabin to discuss the situation. He alleged that both alliance parties, including JD(S) and BJP, experienced cross-voting during the elections. Vijayendra warned of strict consequences for those who betrayed the party’s trust by engaging in such activities, emphasizing the need for accountability and discipline within the party ranks.
