The ruling BJP in Karnataka is facing trouble ahead of the state elections as key leaders are leaving the party. About 60 leaders, including Uddham Dulu, have joined other parties aiming to win not only their own constituencies. Former Chief Minister Jagdish Shettar, who played a significant role in developing the BJP in the state, resigned from his post as MLA and joined the Congress party within 24 hours.
Shettar, known as a strong leader of the Lingayat community, had been associated with the Sangh Parivar and BJP for 32 years and had served as CM and state BJP head. His resignation and joining the Congress is seen as a sign of the BJP's weakening position in Karnataka.
Shettar stated that he had worked continuously for the growth of BJP as a party worker, and while he had held various posts within the party, his departure to the Congress party surprised some. The BJP's failure to give tickets to such strong leaders is being seen as a factor contributing to the party's situation in the state.
Overall, there is a widespread opinion that BJP is facing a reversal of its fortunes in Karnataka and its appeal seems to be waning. Whether Congress or JDU will stand to gain with erosion of BJP votes is something that has to be seen in the elections but BJP's chances in Kannada land seem to be declining.
