Hubballi: Forming a new party is not easy, but my agenda is different — Yatnal

Hubballi: MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal has stated that building a new political party is no easy task, but his political agenda is different from others. He also expressed strong displeasure against the state government’s approach towards the reservation demands of the Panchamasali community.

Speaking at a press meet held at a private hotel in Hubballi, Yatnal criticised the Congress-led state government for showing no real interest in implementing reservation for Panchamasalis. “During the Panchamasali agitation, the government ordered a lathi-charge in front of Suvarna Soudha, violating human rights. Protesters were harassed, and the government treated the community in an inhumane manner,” he alleged.

He pointed out that the previous BJP government had granted 2D category reservation to the community. “Now, the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government is keen only on providing reservation for Muslims, but has neglected Panchamasalis,” Yatnal claimed.

‘I have done no wrong’

“I have not indulged in any corruption, nor did I engage in cross-voting. But I was expelled from the party based on statements from a corrupt family. Today, the entire Hindu society is standing with me,” he said.

“When leaders like Yediyurappa or Siddaramaiah were sidelined in the past, such massive protests did not occur. But now people are protesting voluntarily. I never asked the seers at Kudalasangama to take part in the protests. They chose to fight because of the injustice done to the community,” he added.

“My political journey will continue with dignity. I will wait until Vijayadashami. Even if those who acted against me regret it, I will not return to them. I had played a key role in bringing Yediyurappa back to BJP. Though forming a new party is tough, my goal is different. I do not believe in dynastic politics where some are born to rule and others must follow,” Yatnal remarked.