Karnataka BJP expels MLAs S.T. Somashekar and A. Shivaram Hebbar for six years for anti-party activities. This decision follows cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections and indiscipline.
Karnataka: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka has expelled two of its senior MLAs. S.T. Somashekar and A. Shivaram Hebbar have been expelled from the party for six years for alleged anti-party activities and repeated breaches of discipline. This action follows a decision by the party high command, which levelled serious accusations against both leaders.
Why did the BJP take this drastic step?
B.Y. Vijayendra, president of the BJP's Karnataka unit, confirmed the action. He stated that S.T. Somashekar and A. Shivaram Hebbar repeatedly violated party discipline, leading to their expulsion. Both leaders faced serious allegations of indiscipline and involvement in anti-party activities. Dissatisfaction within the party brewed, particularly after the March 2024 Rajya Sabha elections, where Somashekar cross-voted for Congress candidate Ajay Maken, and Hebbar abstained from voting entirely.
A long list of anti-party activities
The BJP's central disciplinary committee cited numerous instances of indiscipline by these leaders. A letter issued by secretary Om Pathak stated that S.T. Somashekar and A. Shivaram Hebbar have been suspended from primary membership for six years. This prevents them from holding any party position and allows further action against them. Reports indicate that several FIRs have been filed against both MLAs, and investigations are underway.
Growing rebellion within the party
The BJP's action has caused a stir in Karnataka's political landscape. Congress leader D.K. Shivakumar issued a sharp statement, highlighting that BJP leaders facing serious allegations remain protected within the party, while S.T. Somashekar and Shivaram Hebbar have been targeted. Shivakumar stated, "S.T. Somashekar and Shivaram Hebbar did not rape anyone in the Vidhana Soudha. Yet, action was taken. Several MLAs attempted to inject the opposition leader with AIDS, others tried to implicate Yediyurappa, but no action was taken against them."
A message of strict discipline within the BJP
Through this action, the BJP aims to enforce discipline and adherence to party lines within its organization. The party intends to send a message that no leader, regardless of stature, will be spared for breaching discipline. However, this decision is also expected to potentially increase internal friction and dissatisfaction within the party.
