Bengaluru: In a bid to curb internal factionalism and public statements within the Karnataka BJP, senior party leaders have issued a strict directive prohibiting open remarks from any member, including core committee members.

Following this directive, BJP state co-incharge Sudhakar Reddy, who is in Bengaluru, held a prolonged discussion with Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka at the party office. He instructed Ashoka to convey the leadership’s message to all members. Later, addressing the media alongside Ashoka, Reddy emphasized that all party members must adhere to party directives and address their concerns only within the party platform.

Sources said that BJP high command has communicated a strongly worded message to the state leaders. Even senior leaders and core committee members are making public statements. If this continues, what will happen to party discipline? No one is above the party. The central leadership is closely monitoring all developments, the message reportedly said.

Speaking to reporters, Sudhakar Reddy remarked, “We are observing that senior leaders are openly expressing their opinions. This affects grassroots workers striving to strengthen the party. As a responsible opposition, our focus should be on exposing the failures of the Siddaramaiah-led government. The party has an internal mechanism to resolve all issues amicably.”

“Everyone is important to us. If anyone wishes to speak, they should do so within the party forum and follow the party’s guiding principles.” – Sudhakar Reddy, BJP State Co-incharge