Shivakumar effect: BJP faces difficult leadership questions

Bengaluru: The elevation of DK Shivakumar as chief minister is expected to trigger a fresh round of introspection within BJP, with discussions already ongoing over top posts, social equations and the party’s strategy as the principal opposition.Shivakumar is known for his organisational skills, political networking and strong influence within the Vokkaliga community, and BJP functionaries are privately debating how best to counter him.One question being discussed is Karnataka BJP’s leadership structure. Shivakumar and BJP state president BY Vijayendra are said to be friends, a relationship which has often been the subject of political speculation. It is now likely to come under greater scrutiny.Political strategist MB Maramakal said: “Shivakumar is not a conventional Congress chief minister. He is an aggressive politician with strong organisational network, and direct access to different social groups. BJP will have to recalibrate its strategy and decide whether it wants a confrontational approach or a broader social coalition.”Whether R Ashoka should remain opposition leader is a question that has also sparked debate within sections of BJP since both he and Shivakumar belong to the influential Vokkaliga community. Some functionaries feel the party may require a different social balance in its organisational structure to broaden its appeal.Names of former minister Sunil Kumar, an OBC face from coastal Karnataka, MLA Aravind Bellad, a young Lingayat and deputy opposition leader, and veteran legislator S Suresh Kumar are being discussed as possible alternatives should the party consider a change.Many seniors have openly questioned the functioning of the state unit under Vijayendra, arguing that the party needs a more aggressive organisational approach. There is speculation that Union ministers V Somanna and Pralhad Joshi could emerge as contenders if the party’s central brass decides to replace Vijayendra amid continuing internal dissent.Yet, many believe replacing Vijayendra may not be as straightforward as it appears. “There is the TINA factor — there is no alternative at the moment,” said a senior functionary. “Many seniors have experience, but few have Vijayendra’s ability to manage resources to fight elections. He also enjoys the backing of BS Yediyurappa, who remains the tallest Lingayat representative in the state.”