By The Sampadak Express
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expelled senior leader and former Union Minister Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for six years, citing repeated instances of indiscipline. The Central Disciplinary Committee announced the decision on Wednesday, stating that Yatnal had been involved in multiple acts of defiance despite previous warnings.
According to the BJP’s official statement, Yatnal received a show cause notice on February 10. After reviewing his response, the committee concluded that Yatnal had repeatedly violated party discipline, leading to his expulsion with immediate effect. As part of the decision, Yatnal has been instructed to refrain from participating in any BJP-related activities.
Yatnal’s Response to Expulsion
In response to his expulsion, Yatnal took to social media to accuse the party of penalizing him for speaking out against dynasty politics and corruption. He claimed his expulsion was a result of his advocacy for reforms, his criticism of authoritarian leadership, and his calls for the development of North Karnataka. He suggested that vested interests within the party had orchestrated his removal to further their own agendas.“
The decision to expel me will not deter my fight against corruption, family politics, and the development of North Karnataka. I will continue to work for the people with the same dedication and determination,” Yatnal posted on X. He also expressed gratitude to his supporters, including party workers, religious leaders, media, and his family.
Background of Controversy
Yatnal has long been an outspoken critic of former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and his son, B.Y. Vijayendra, who currently heads the BJP’s Karnataka unit. In December 2023, he alleged financial irregularities worth ₹40,000 crore during the Yediyurappa government’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis. He had previously warned that if expelled, he would expose these alleged financial misdeeds.
In addition to his criticisms of leadership, Yatnal had proposed a public campaign to raise awareness about amendments to the Waqf Bill, but the initiative faced opposition from other BJP leaders who urged him to refrain from organizing independent activities. Over the years, Yatnal had been issued multiple show cause notices for his defiant behavior, leading to the ultimate decision of his expulsion from the party.
