This has sparked speculations in the BJP circles that the 78-year-old party veteran may name his successor at this meeting, paving the way for a smooth transition of power. The party’s top bosses have of late been playing down talks of a leadership change in Karnataka, trying to reinforce that Yediyurappa will complete his full term.
These comments, leaders say, are at odds with the BJP’s position of not keeping ministers above the age of 75. Since the party is set to face assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh in the next few months, where its stakes are high, the leadership is unlikely to prolong a decision related to Karnataka.
After meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, home minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda during his two-day trip to Delhi, Yediyurappa has dismissed reports of his resignation. A party leader said only the Modi-Shah duo know about the party’s plans for Karnataka, and they have kept it a closely-guarded secret.
Even if the chief minister were to name his successor at the July 26 meeting, it would likely happen only according to the party’s script without much hype or drama. The BJP top brass might keep the new leader’s name a suspense till the last minute to prevent any lobbying, said party sources.
The chief minister, sources say, has been concerned about the political future of his son BY Vijayendra, currently a vice president of BJP’s Karnataka unit. While older son BY Raghavendra has inherited the Shivamogga Lok Sabha seat from his father, Vijayendra’s attempts to enter the assembly have been unsuccessful. The CM may be looking for some reassurance from party leaders about an important position for Vijayendra, either in the party or in the government.
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