BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra’s recent visit to Soujanya’s residence has sparked significant unrest within the party. The last-minute decision to meet Soujanya’s family as part of the Dharmasthala Chalo program has raised several questions.Accompanied by Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta and Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja, Vijayendra met Soujanya’s mother, Kusumavathi, and assured legal assistance if an appeal is filed in the Supreme Court regarding the Soujanya case.
However, Vijayendra’s abrupt decision, made without prior consultation with senior leaders, led to discontent. By the time other leaders were informed, many, including Pralhad Joshi, R. Ashok, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, V. Sunil Kumar, and D.V. Sadananda Gowda, had already left for Bengaluru, while Naleen Kumar Kateel headed to Mangaluru.The lack of prior discussion within the party regarding the visit has caused friction. Some leaders questioned the necessity of visiting Soujanya’s residence after a religious gathering, raising internal objections.
Additionally, the absence of speaking opportunities for coastal BJP leaders at the event drew attention. Former Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda, former state president Naleen Kumar Kateel, and MLA Sunil Kumar, despite being present on the stage, were not given a chance to speak. The BJP cited time constraints as the reason.Meanwhile, the ruling Congress has raised questions about the BJP’s Dharmasthala visit. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah questioned the source of funding for the large-scale event, while Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara clarified that the Soujanya case would not be transferred from SIT to NIA investigation.