BJP sitting on an uncomfortable fence

Following the Yeddyurappa-Reddy tussle, many BJP MLAs not sure which side to take

Following the Yeddyurappa-Reddy tussle, many BJP MLAs not sure which side to take

While the Yeddyurappa and Reddy camps seem to be scheming against each other, BJP MLAs have chosen to sit on the fence, apparently clueless on which side to take.

The Reddys had rattled the chief minister, when they revolted by taking 50 MLAs to a hotel in Hyderabad last year. But this time, they look hapless with the dwindling number of MLAs in their camp.

Unhappy

That does not mean that Yeddyurappa is enjoying the majority of the BJP legislative party, as the MLAs were not happy with his autocratic ways.

The Reddys hinted that Yeddyurappa would not have been the chief minister without their support.

"We are in such a situation that we could not choose our side," said a BJP MLA. "On one hand, the Reddys are tainted.

On the other, Yeddyurappa is proving himself to be not a leader. We are not comfortable with his leadership."

In the meantime, HN Anathkumar, former union minister and present MP from Bangalore (South), who is seen as a rival of Yeddyurappa in the BJP, seems active against the chief minister with a stalwart like R Ashok seen with him after switching from Yeddyurappa camp.

Reddys support

The Reddys are understood to have lent their support to Anathkumar and the latter is appeared to have re-stated nursing his chief minister dream.

However, no camp is sure of either's strength with the MLAs not saying much.

In the meantime, the Reddys gave a clear signal to Yeddyurappa by clearly stating that he became the chief minister because of their backing, and the support of Bellary voters, while addressing a rally yesterday, that was a part of health minister Sriramulu's ongoing tour in the district.

In response, Yeddyurappa is understood to have continued his efforts to pursue the party high command to give him permission to drop anyone from the Reddy camp from his cabinet.

Insiders said that this way, he could gain much ground with Sushma Swaraj, leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a firm supporter of the Reddys.

"The difference in opinion in a political party is natural. I do not believe that there is any threat for Yeddyurappa's leadership.
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These are just rumours that the Opposition is spreading to misguide people," clarified K S Eswarappa, BJP state president.