Karnataka BJP Asks MLAs to Swear at Temple in Cross-Voting Probe

The Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced that its legislators will be asked to take an oath before Lord Manjunatha at the Dharmasthala temple to prove their loyalty amid allegations of cross-voting in the recent MLC elections. State BJP president Nalin Kumar Kateel stated that the party is committed to uncovering the truth behind the cross-voting incident that led to the defeat of the party's candidate.

The move comes after several BJP MLAs were accused of voting against the party line in the elections for four legislative council seats, resulting in the victory of candidates from the Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular). The party has initiated a probe to identify the rebels and has sought the cooperation of all its legislators.

Kateel said that the oath, to be held at the revered temple in Dakshina Kannada district, would be a 'sacred act' to ensure that MLAs speak the truth. 'We have full faith in Lord Manjunatha. Those who are innocent will have no fear,' he added.

The opposition Congress and JD(S) have criticized the BJP's decision, calling it a 'gimmick' and a 'drama' to divert attention from internal dissent. They questioned the efficacy of such an oath in a democratic setup and urged the party to focus on governance instead.

However, BJP leaders defended the approach, stating that it respects the religious sentiments of the people and reinforces moral values in public life. They insisted that the party is determined to maintain discipline and will take action against those found guilty based on evidence.

The cross-voting episode has highlighted the growing factionalism within the Karnataka BJP, with reports of infighting between factions led by former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and others. The party is now banking on the temple oath to restore unity and send a strong message against internal dissent.