Karnataka BJP Chief Claims Congress Is in Turmoil as Party Plans Yediyurappa Rally

The push signals a bid to set the tone before by-elections seen as a test of momentum.

Overview

Vijayendra, speaking in Tumakuru, called B.S. Yediyurappa a political force and previewed an Abhimanotsava in Chitradurga on May 8–9 with Union Home Minister Amit Shah expected.
He alleged an imminent leadership change in Congress, citing a tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and pointing to Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent remarks as a sign of interest in the post.
Organisers forecast a large turnout for the event with more than 1,000 seers and about 10 lakh supporters, and Vijayendra said Suttur Mutt’s seer agreed to attend after invitations that included Siddaganga Mutt.
He predicted Congress would lose the Davangere South and Bagalkot Assembly by-polls and said some Congress leaders privately told him they expect defeat.
He attacked the state government’s record, alleging rampant corruption and rising drug abuse in Mysuru, and cast the by-polls as a warning for the administration.