The BJP‘s fact-finding committee investigating the cross-voting controversy during last week’s Legislative Council elections has identified four key suspects, according to party MLC C. T. Ravi.
Ravi, who heads the three-member committee constituted by the party, said an interim report has already been submitted to B. Y. Vijayendra, even as the investigation continues.
Committee examines role of 12 NDA legislators
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Ravi said the panel’s findings indicate that around 12 NDA legislators are suspected to have either cross-voted or cast invalid votes during the secret ballot held for the Legislative Council elections.
The legislators under scrutiny include members from both the BJP and its ally, the Janata Dal (Secular).
Four BJP members among those under suspicion
According to Ravi, the committee has narrowed its focus to four BJP legislators, including one member whose vote was declared invalid.
“While we cannot categorically say these are the individuals who cross-voted, our findings suggest that these 12 legislators are most likely to have cross-voted. Of these, four are from BJP, while the remaining are from JD(S),” he said.
Final report still awaited
The BJP leader clarified that the inquiry is still underway and that the committee is examining additional information before reaching a final conclusion.
He noted that the interim report submitted to the state party leadership contains preliminary findings and that more time would be required to complete the investigation.
Cross-voting episode sparks political debate
The cross-voting allegations have triggered intense discussions within the NDA alliance in Karnataka, with party leaders seeking to determine whether legislators voted against the alliance’s official candidates during the election.
The final report is expected to play a crucial role in deciding any disciplinary action that may be taken against those found responsible.