Karnataka CM to quit next week? Here's what he said
Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has finally hinted at the possibility of stepping down soon after his government completes two years in office on July 26. "I will know the next step only after July 25 and will abide by the BJP high command's decision," Yediyurappa told reporters. Speculations have been rife the state might see a change of guard soon.
Yediyurappa said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP chief JP Nadda "have special love and faith toward me." He said, "You should know that no position is given to those who have crossed 75 years of age in the party, but appreciating my work, they have given me an opportunity despite the fact that I am 78 years old."
On Wednesday, the veteran leader had dropped another hint regarding his resignation. In the wake of more vocal opposition from his supporters against any move to replace him, he tweeted to urge everyone to act as per "party ethics and not indulge in protests/indiscipline." He also reiterated that he is a loyal BJP worker and served the party with the "highest standards of ethics."
Amid speculation about Yediyurappa's possible exit, the CM met the BJP's top leadership, including PM Modi last week. He also called on Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Nadda. After returning from Delhi, Yediyurappa had dismissed the reports of his possible resignation; he said that the BJP leadership has asked him to continue as CM and strengthen the party.
As rumors of Yediyurappa's possible ouster spread across Karnataka, the Lingayat community has shown its support toward him. Delegations of seers from various mutts met him this week at his residence. Many of them even warned the BJP of "consequences" if Yediyurappa was denied a complete term. Support also poured in from Lingayat leaders (Yediyurappa is himself a Lingayat) of the Opposition Congress party.
