Senior BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka emphasized that the party would not pardon legislators who engaged in cross-voting during the recent Karnataka Legislative Council elections. Ashoka stated that betraying the party after winning elections on the BJP symbol could not be overlooked.
Ashoka alleged that four BJP MLAs had participated in cross-voting during the Council elections. However, he noted the challenge of identifying the individuals due to the secret ballot system used during the election. The matter of cross-voting would be internally discussed within the party leadership.
The Opposition leader mentioned plans for a meeting with senior BJP leader B.L. Santhosh to address the issue of cross-voting. Ashoka clarified that while there were suggestions of BJP legislators taking an oath against cross-voting at Dharmasthala, the party had decided that such actions were unnecessary.
Ashoka reiterated the party’s commitment to addressing the issue of cross-voting and preventing its recurrence in the future. He criticized Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, accusing him of using money and influence to secure support. The BJP leader vowed to take disciplinary action against those involved in cross-voting.
