BJP sees first win over new Karnataka regime as minister quits

The Karnataka BJP has secured what it terms its first political victory against the new Congress-led government, following the resignation of Minister B. Nagendra. The minister stepped down just 25 days after being sworn in, a move that comes as a significant morale booster for the Opposition party.

Nagendra's resignation follows sustained protests by the BJP during the recently concluded Monsoon Session of the state legislature. The party had been demanding his removal on the grounds that he has been chargesheeted in a case related to the alleged embezzlement of funds meant for the welfare of Scheduled Tribe communities.

The development marks a turning point for the BJP, which had faced criticism from its own cadre and central leadership for not being aggressive enough in its campaigns. The party had also suffered an embarrassing defeat in the recent Legislative Council polls, where internal groupism and infighting added to its woes.

Party sources indicate that the BJP's confidence grew after the Monsoon Session was abruptly wound up two days ahead of schedule. The significance of the resignation was underscored by party national president Nitin Nabin reportedly appreciating Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok during a meeting on Friday.

Emboldened by this success, the BJP and its coalition partner, the JD(S), are now planning to launch campaigns on other issues. These include alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations by the Karnataka Public Service Commission, the government's response to drought, the Bidadi Township Project, and legal questions over toll collection by NICE.

Both R. Ashok and state BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra have indicated that Nagendra's resignation is just the beginning of their campaign. However, party strategists believe the BJP can build on this momentum only by addressing internal groupism, galvanising the cadre, and improving coordination with the JD(S).

The immediate question before the Opposition coalition is whether to proceed with the planned Ballari padayatra, scheduled to begin from September 1. A decision on this will be taken after consultations among senior leaders.