BJP Purge in Karnataka: Two MLAs Expelled Amidst Internal Turmoil and Anti-Party Allegations

In a significant move underscoring its resolve to maintain internal discipline, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka expelled two of its sitting Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) for engaging in anti-party activities. This decision, coming just months before the crucial Lok Sabha elections, has set off a political ripple effect in the state, raising questions about factionalism, loyalty, and leadership dynamics within the saffron party.

Who Were the MLAs Expelled?

The two expelled legislators are A. S. Patil (Nadahalli) from Devara Hippargi and S. A. Ramdas from Krishnaraja constituency in Mysuru. Both had long-standing associations with the BJP and played significant roles in previous state-level campaigns.

According to the party’s disciplinary committee, their actions amounted to “blatant indiscipline” and “wilful defiance” of party directives during recent organizational events. The decision to expel them was made after months of internal monitoring and formal warnings. The Hindu reported that the party leadership had grown increasingly concerned over their alleged attempts to sabotage official functions and rally support for rival factions.

The Alleged Offences

Sources within the BJP state unit claim the expelled MLAs were actively involved in parallel political meetings and were openly criticizing the leadership of B.Y. Vijayendra, the newly appointed Karnataka BJP president and son of veteran leader B.S. Yediyurappa.

In recent months, both Patil and Ramdas were seen aligning with discontented voices within the party. They reportedly questioned candidate selections and were suspected of indirectly supporting independent candidates in local elections. According to Deccan Herald, their actions had become a “serious threat” to party cohesion.

BJP's Firm Stand on Internal Discipline

The BJP’s move is part of a broader attempt to reassert authority in Karnataka after the party’s disappointing performance in the 2023 Assembly Elections. Having lost power to the Congress, the BJP has been working on damage control, restructuring its leadership, and preparing for the 2024 general elections with renewed focus.

Addressing the press, Karnataka BJP spokesperson Capt. Ganesh Karnik stated, “The party will not tolerate any indiscipline. The decision to expel the MLAs was unanimous and necessary to protect the party's unity.”

The disciplinary action has received tacit approval from the central leadership in New Delhi, with insiders confirming that BJP National President J.P. Nadda was kept in the loop.

Impact on Karnataka’s Political Landscape

The expulsion has intensified the already volatile political environment in the state. With Karnataka being a key battleground state for the upcoming general elections, the BJP is keen to avoid internal fractures that could hurt its electoral prospects.

Political analysts at PRS Legislative Research noted that such disciplinary actions, while damaging in the short term, are often aimed at “signaling seriousness” to both cadres and voters. “It’s about sending a message that no one is above the party line,” one analyst remarked.

Meanwhile, the Congress party has been quick to criticize the BJP for internal instability. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar called it a “meltdown in slow motion,” while also extending an open invitation to disgruntled BJP leaders to join the Congress.

What’s Next for the Expelled MLAs?

While both Patil and Ramdas have so far refrained from joining any other party, political observers believe they are exploring their options. Some sources suggest that at least one of them may contest the 2024 general election as an independent or with support from regional outfits like the Janata Dal (Secular).

A.S. Patil, in a media interaction following the expulsion, stated, “I stood for truth. If that amounts to indiscipline, I have no regrets.” His cryptic comments hint at a possible tell-all political campaign in the months to come.

Internal Unity vs Public Perception

This development brings the BJP’s internal challenges to the forefront. The party has often projected an image of discipline and hierarchy, unlike its rivals. However, repeated incidents of factionalism—especially in Karnataka—are testing that perception.

The leadership change from Basavaraj Bommai to B.Y. Vijayendra has not been universally accepted by grassroots workers, particularly those loyal to older leaders. According to India Today, some cadres view the shift as an attempt to centralize power within a few families.

Conclusion

The expulsion of two senior MLAs is a bold but risky move by the BJP as it seeks to maintain ideological and organizational coherence in Karnataka. Whether this act of internal cleansing will strengthen the party or deepen the cracks remains to be seen. With elections on the horizon, every decision carries weight—and this one might just shape the BJP's future in the state.