Why Did BJP Declare BS Yeddyurappa as a BJP CM Candidate for Karnataka Polls?

Funny question. Kumaraswamy was not in BJP, and despite his recent 75th birthday celebration, Yeddyurappa remains a key figure in the BJP's Karnataka campaign. The decision to include him in the BJP candidate list for the Karnataka state assembly elections is a complex one, deeply rooted in political, social, and communal dynamics.

The Caste Factor and Political Strategy

Politics in India has long been associated with caste and communal quotas. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Yeddyurappa played a pivotal role in the BJP's victory, securing 25 parliamentary seats, compared to Congress's single seat. While corruption remains a significant issue, it is a double-edged sword. If a member of the "Nhanyanga" (Justice Party) is corrupt, they should be punished. However, if a member of the "Shashankanga" (Progress Party) is corrupt, 99 out of 100 are in the same boat. Thus, the BJP cannot simply gloss over the issues of corruption.

Further complicating the situation, if any member of the "Karyanga" (Service Party) is corrupt, their hands should be cut, only if a citizen can propose such an amendment to the Constitution, which they cannot. Given these limitations, accepting corruption, especially when it benefits the party, becomes an acceptable compromise.

Yeddyurappa's Importance and Administerial Skills

Yeddyurappa's corruption is well-documented, but his contributions to the BJP's success cannot be ignored. As a Lingayath, he commands strong support in North Karnataka, a region crucial for the BJP's vote bank. He also has a reputation for being a good administrator, which could be vital for maintaining order and governance in Karnataka.

Continuation of Power and U.S. Connections

The BJP Central High Command is aware of the complexities surrounding Yeddyurappa. In their efforts to secure continued power in Karnataka, they have decided to support him despite his shortcomings. Considering that no other BJP leader can currently unite the Karnataka branch, Yeddyurappa becomes indispensable. His extensive network and personal connections with politicians from all parties further solidify his importance.

Controversial Support and Governance Challenges

Yeddyurappa is the leader of the strong Lingayat community that constitutes 16% of the electorate. His ability to secure full support from this community in elections has been a cornerstone of BJP's success. With the recent passing of Ananth Kumar, BJP does not have a leader capable of uniting the flock. Yeddyurappa's vast experience and administrative skills are crucial for maintaining governance and order.

Proximity to Amit Shah, the current president of the BJP, is another critical factor. As long as the BJP can benefit from Yeddyurappa's support, they will continue to overlook his shortcomings. The question remains: Is this the best solution or a short-sighted strategy that ignores the long-term implications of corruption? The answer depends on whether the BJP can navigate these challenges effectively.