Nagendra’s resignation is a morale booster for the Karnataka BJP as it tastes its first ‘political victory’ against the new regime

The opposition BJP launched a vociferous protest during the just concluded monsoon session of the state legislature demanding the ouster of B. Nagendra on the grounds that he was accused in a case of misappropriation of funds meant for the welfare of Scheduled Tribe communities.

Minister B. Nagendra’s resignation within 25 days of his swearing-in came as a much-needed shot in the arm for the opposition BJP, which had launched vociferous protests during the just-concluded monsoon session of the state legislature demanding his ouster on the grounds that he was accused of embezzlement, that is, embezzlement of the commonwealth.

The opposition BJP, which came under attack from its own cadre as well as central leaders for being non-aggressive and unable to take any campaign to a logical conclusion, experienced its first success with the resignation of Mr. Nagendra.

Party strategists and central leaders were alarmed when the changing of the guard occurred during the Congress dispensation when DK Shivakumar took over the mantle of chief minister from Mr Siddaramaiah, fearing that their state unit leaders were matching Mr Shivakumar’s aggressiveness.

Their fears were borne out early on when the opposition BJP and JD (S) faced embarrassing defeats in the Legislative Council polls where they failed to protect their flock. Groups and fights within the organization also contributed to the humiliation of the saffron party.

However, the Nagendra episode has now boosted BJP’s confidence as it has been able to assert itself and make the Chief Minister buckle under pressure. The party’s confidence began to grow soon after the monsoon session ended abruptly two days ahead of schedule.

The significance of the BJP’s struggle that led to his resignation was highlighted by the party’s national president Nitin Nabin, who allegedly slapped Leader of the Opposition R Ashok during their meeting on Friday.

Buoyed by the resignation, the BJP has now decided to flex its political muscles by campaigning with its coalition partner JD(S) on other issues as well, including irregularities in recruitment exams by the Karnataka Public Service Commission, the government’s alleged weak response to the drought, the Bidadi Township Project and legal questions over NICE’s collection of tolls for its road users.

This was echoed by Mr Ashok and State President BY Vijayendra who noted that Mr Nagendra’s resignation was not the end but the beginning of their campaign.

Amid this newfound enthusiasm, party strategists still feel that the party could build on the resignation episode only if it ends factionalism, energizes the cadre and improves coordination with the JD(S).

What about padayatra?

The immediate question before the opposition coalition is whether to go ahead with the Ballari padayatra that is scheduled to begin on September 1 in the wake of Nagendra’s resignation. Party sources say a decision on whether to go ahead with the padayatra will be taken after consultation among senior leaders.

Published – 29 Aug 2026 0:27 IST