BJP Demands Unconditional Apology from Raghupathi Bhat for Allegations Against MLA Yashpal Suvarna
Udupi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a strong condemnation of former MLA Raghupathi Bhat, demanding an immediate and unconditional apology for what they describe as “baseless allegations” against Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna. Udupi City BJP President Dinesh Amin and Rural BJP President Rajeev Kulal addressed a press conference, accusing Bhat of attempting to malign Suvarna’s reputation with false and politically motivated accusations stemming from frustration over his current political standing.
The BJP leaders asserted that MLA Suvarna acted responsibly in response to a complaint from the local Karavali Yuvak Mandal and residents regarding alleged false documents related to private land owned by Bhat in Badanidiyoor village. They stated that Suvarna, as a public representative, merely sought lawful action and justice for the public by bringing the matter to the attention of the relevant authorities.
Amin and Kulal highlighted Suvarna’s rise within the BJP, from grassroots worker to elected MLA, contrasting his dedication with Bhat’s alleged reluctance to accept Suvarna’s current role.
The BJP representatives emphasized Suvarna’s sustained efforts towards Udupi’s development, despite limited resources, and his responsiveness to party workers’ concerns.
The BJP leaders were sharply critical of Bhat’s past actions, particularly his decision to contest the Legislative Council elections as a rebel candidate after being denied a party ticket in the previous election. They accused him of betraying the BJP by ignoring appeals from party leaders and senior members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Consequently, they questioned Bhat’s moral authority to comment on party loyalty and the functioning of the current MLA.
Addressing Bhat’s claims of delayed files at the Urban Development Authority, the BJP suggested he should have pursued legal remedies or appealed to higher authorities rather than portraying himself as a “victim” before the public. They vehemently denied Bhat’s allegations that MLA Suvarna was threatening officials, challenging him to provide concrete evidence to support such claims instead of making vague and unsubstantiated statements.
The BJP officials pointed out that the state is currently governed by the Congress party, and the Urban Development Authority is headed by Congress leaders, questioning how Suvarna could wield the alleged influence to obstruct Bhat’s files. They argued that Bhat’s assertions indirectly implied that Suvarna holds more power than the district-in-charge minister of the Congress government.
The BJP further alleged that Bhat, in a desperate attempt to remain politically relevant, is acting as a tool of the Congress party to defame Suvarna. They urged him to cease this behavior immediately and issue an apology. They also cautioned that Bhat’s criticism of Suvarna indirectly insults the BJP workers who previously supported him and contributed to his three electoral victories, reminding him that party workers have worked for both leaders in different elections.
The BJP representatives warned that if Bhat persists in making such allegations, BJP workers will be compelled to respond appropriately.
Former City Municipal President Prabhakar Poojary, Rural BJP leaders Raju Kulal, Jagadish Acharya, Pradeep Honnala, Srivatsa, and Manoj Shetty were also present at the press conference, demonstrating the party’s unified stance on the matter.
