Basanagouda Patil Yatnal
Speaking to media, Yatnal said the party’s national leadership is seriously considering his return, but he has made it clear that Vijayendra’s continuation as state president is unacceptable to him. Vijayapura : Vijayapura city MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal has ruled out any possibility of rejoining the BJP as a compromise with the party’s state leadership, making it clear that his return hinges on the removal of BY Vijayendra as state president and the party dropping him as its CM candidate. Yatnal’s categorical stand underscores the deep-rooted hostility between the two leaders and threatens to prolong the factional battle within the BJP in Vijayapura district, where the party could face electoral consequences if the dispute remains unresolved. The recent meeting between Yatnal and Vijayendra at a journalist’s house in Chebbi village of Hubballi taluk had fuelled speculation about a possible thaw in their strained relationship and the beginning of negotiations for Yatnal’s return to the party. However, Yatnal has dismissed the possibility of reconciliation on the existing terms, asserting that his position should not be portrayed as personal stubbornness or an unwillingness to mend fences. Yatnal maintains that he respects the BJP’s national leadership and is not opposed to rejoining the party in principle. The implications for the BJP in Vijayapura district could be significant. He has warned that the party should worry about the possibility of a Hindu rebel candidate contesting from Vijayapura city if he is denied the BJP ticket.