Vijayapura: A political storm is brewing in Karnataka’s Vijayapura district, where a long-simmering rivalry among influential Lingayat leaders has escalated into a public challenge and resignation drama.
BJP firebrand MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, known for his controversial outbursts, triggered the row by daring Congress leaders Shivanand Patil (minister) and MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar to resign and face him as Independent candidates. This came after Patil was condemned for alleged remarks against Prophet Mohammed, which he claims were “misinterpreted.” A protest rally organised by religious heads and Congress leaders intensified the heat, with Kashappanavar stating Yatnal “doesn’t believe in any religion.”
In retaliation, Yatnal made sharp personal attacks, accusing Shivanand Patil’s family of political opportunism and alleging misuse of irrigation funds. Days later, in a bold move, Minister Shivanand Patil submitted his resignation, but with the condition that it would take effect only if Yatnal resigned too. Speaker U T Khader, however, rejected the resignation. Yatnal refused to reciprocate, calling Patil’s move “foolish.”
The BJP, already grappling with internal tensions, suspended Yatnal for six years for repeated criticism of senior leaders, including B S Yediyurappa and state president B Y Vijayendra. Observers believe the latest feud—tinged with sectarian politics among Panchamasali Lingayats—also reflects deeper struggles for control over cooperative institutions in the region.
Interestingly, Industries Minister M B Patil was absent during the protest rally, citing his presence at a Congress event in Belagavi. His absence reportedly irked Shivanand Patil, leading to yet another internal rift among the region’s Congress leaders.
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