BJP workers angered over MLA Suresh Shetty’s ‘Khader for CM’ remark

BJP cadre urge party president B Y Vijayendra to issue notice to Kapu MLA Shetty and seek an explanation

Udupi

Grassroots BJP workers in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have expressed anger over Kapu MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty’s public remarks praising Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khadar. At a public event, Shetty said, “it is our dream to see Khader as Chief Minister (CM), and I pray to the Almighty to make this a reality.”

Shetty began his address by saying, “ Khader, a personality who controls the Assembly is present among us.” He further said “Khader is a noble politician, and so was his father. His father, U T Fareed, was a benevolent leader, and Khader has inherited the same political conduct. He should rise to greater heights. He should become a minister. It is our dream to see him as CM, and I pray for the same.

The statement has triggered discontent among hardline BJP workers and sections of the party leaders. Cadre members are questioning why grassroots workers are often pitted against minority communities, while leaders like Shetty openly praise and endorse political leaders from other parties and communities.

Speaking to blrpost.com on condition of anonymity, a BJP worker said, “during elections, we fight on the ground, risking our lives and making enemies. Lives have been lost in communal clashes. Leaders make inflammatory statements targeting a particular community during polls, but in reality, they maintain cordial relationships with politicians from the same community. The BJP opposed the Taliban when it was not in power at the Centre, but later extended diplomatic engagement.”

Another BJP worker alleged that in Kapu constituency of Udupi district, party foot soldiers are specifically instructed to safeguard Hindu interests by all means. “Now, Shetty has no hesitation in endorsing Khader for the CM post. If this is his dream, he should join the Congress to make it a reality,” the worker said.

The workers demanded that BJP state president B Y Vijayendra take action and “show Shetty his position.” “Vijayendra must issue a notice to Shetty for making such a statement and seek an explanation. On the other hand, Shetty must apologise to party workers for his statement,” they said.