Shikaripur: Marking the 84th birthday of former Karnataka Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa, senior BJP leader and MP Govinda Karajola on Thursday announced that a grand felicitation programme will be organised in May at Chitradurga to honour Yediyurappa’s five decades in public life. At the same time, Karajola launched a sharp attack on the ruling state government, urging leaders to “stop fighting over chairs” and focus on governance.
Addressing reporters in Shikaripur, Karajola said Yediyurappa has completed 50 years in politics, having served as Deputy Chief Minister and Chief Minister, and contributed significantly to farmers’ welfare and girls’ education.
Grand Felicitation in May at Chitradurga
Karajola said the felicitation event will be conducted in May with participation from dignitaries across the country. He informed that Prabhakar Kore will serve as President of the reception committee, while Karajola and B. Sriramulu will take key organisational responsibilities.
He stated that the detailed format of the programme and the list of national leaders to be invited will be announced shortly. Leaders expect participation from representatives across all 30 districts of Karnataka.
Praising Yediyurappa’s tenure, Karajola highlighted welfare initiatives such as the Bhagya Lakshmi Bond scheme for girl children, residential schools for girls, and milk incentive programmes for farmers. “He has immense love for farmers and encouraged girls’ education. I pray that he lives for 100 years,” he said.
Former minister Sriramulu echoed similar sentiments, stating that Yediyurappa led the state four times as Chief Minister and remains a towering political figure.
‘Stop the Chair Fight, Give Good Governance’
Shifting focus to state politics, Karajola criticised the ongoing debate over the Chief Minister’s post and alleged internal divisions within the ruling camp.
“Stop fighting over chairs. Provide good governance to the people. Dalits should not have to beg for the Chief Minister’s post. Leadership should be given with dignity,” Karajola asserted.
He referred to competing claims involving leaders such as D. K. Shivakumar, H. C. Mahadevappa and K. H. Muniyappa, alleging that such public positioning reflects instability in governance.
Karajola further accused the government of backtracking on its promise of internal reservation for Dalits and questioned the financial management of guarantee schemes, indirectly targeting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
He alleged that large sums, including Rs 39,000 crore, were being diverted elsewhere while guarantees promised during elections were under strain.
