BJP Expels Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for Third Time Over Anti-Party Remarks

Vijayapura BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, known for his controversial statements against the party and minority communities, has once again been expelled from the party.

This marks the third time in his political career that he has faced expulsion from the BJP due to his outspoken remarks and dissent against party leadership.

Yatnal’s recent expulsion comes after his critical comments about former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa and his son, state BJP president BY Vijayendra.

A History of Expulsions

Yatnal’s political journey with the BJP has been marked by multiple conflicts with party leaders. His first expulsion occurred in 2009 when he accused Yediyurappa and current Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje of misconduct. Though he was later reinstated, his rebellious streak continued.

In 2016, Yatnal contested the MLC election as an independent candidate, directly opposing the party’s official nominee, GS Nyamagouda. Despite this defiance, he won the election. However, this act of rebellion led to his second expulsion from the BJP.

Yediyurappa’s Role in Yatnal’s Political Comeback

Interestingly, Yediyurappa was instrumental in bringing Yatnal back into the BJP fold. Ahead of the 2018 Assembly elections, Yediyurappa personally ensured Yatnal received a party ticket, despite opposition from several local leaders.

According to a senior BJP leader, “Yediyurappa was convinced that Yatnal’s inclusion would consolidate Hindu votes and boost the party’s electoral prospects.”

Why BJP Expelled Yatnal This Time

The latest expulsion in 2025 stems from Yatnal’s repeated attacks on Yediyurappa and his son, BY Vijayendra. His remarks questioning Vijayendra’s appointment as the state BJP president created unrest within the party.

Despite multiple warnings from the party’s leadership, Yatnal continued to criticize the leadership publicly.

BJP insiders confirmed that Yatnal’s conduct had become a significant liability for the party. “He was given enough opportunities to correct his behaviour, but he refused to comply,” said a senior party official.

Official Statement from BJP

The BJP’s Central Disciplinary Committee issued a statement outlining the reasons for Yatnal’s expulsion. The notice read:

“The party has taken serious note of your repeated violations of party discipline, despite your assurances of good behaviour and conduct in response to earlier warnings. Accordingly, it has been decided to expel you for a period of six years with immediate effect from the primary membership of the party and from any position you may hold within the party.”

Yatnal’s Response to Expulsion

Yatnal reacted strongly to the expulsion, accusing the party of promoting nepotism and corruption. In a public statement, he said:

“Everyone from Yediyurappa’s family has to come—his sons, grandsons, dogs, and their puppies. It is done now… All this is the reward for working hard.”

In a social media post, Yatnal remained defiant, stating that his removal would not deter his fight against “corruption, family politics, and for the development of North Karnataka and Hindutva.”

“The party has expelled me for six years for speaking against dynasty politics, corruption, and reforms within the party. Certain vested interests have played their role,” Yatnal posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Reactions from BJP Leadership

State BJP president BY Vijayendra supported the party’s decision, emphasizing that it was necessary to maintain discipline within the organization. Vijayendra posted on X:

“The disciplinary action taken against @BasanagoudaBJP is a decision made after careful observation of the situation over a long period by the senior leadership.”

Several BJP leaders welcomed the expulsion, stating that it was long overdue. A senior party member remarked, “This decision should have been taken earlier to prevent further embarrassment. However, better late than never. This action will send a strong message to others considering rebellion against the party.”

Underlying Political Tensions

Yatnal’s criticism of the party’s leadership reflects broader dissatisfaction within the Karnataka BJP. Many party members from North Karnataka have long expressed frustration over the dominance of leaders from southern Karnataka.

Yatnal had previously questioned why no Chief Minister was appointed from North Karnataka despite the region’s significant contribution to the party’s strength in the Assembly.

The appointment of BY Vijayendra as the state president, despite opposition from several senior party members, exacerbated tensions.

Alongside Yatnal, other dissenting leaders included BP Harish, former MLA Kumar Bangarappa, and former Union Minister GM Siddeshwar.

Yatnal’s Political Career and Future Plans

Yatnal, a former Union Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, has had a long and controversial political career. He has never concealed his ambition to become Chief Minister.

Before the 2023 Assembly elections, Yatnal claimed that the BJP could win 150 seats if it contested under his leadership.

Despite his expulsion, Yatnal has not ruled out future political moves. While he previously denied plans to form a new regional party, his recent remarks suggest that he may not remain politically inactive for long.