BJP State president B.Y. Vijayendra refused to be drawn into a discussion on the viral audio clip purportedly featuring former Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda calling for his removal.

Responding to questions from reporters, Mr. Vijayendra referred to Mr. Gowda’s statement clarifying that the voice heard in the audio was not his.

“When he himself has clarified that the voice in the audio is not his, there is no need for any further discussion on the matter,” the BJP leader said.

While describing cross-voting in the BJP during the recent Legislative Council elections as a closed matter, Mr. Vijayendra said he had held discussions with party MLA S.R. Vishwanath, who had been involved in recent rumblings within the party. He said such crises were not unusual in political parties, but added that the leadership was working towards instilling confidence among party workers.

Referring to the controversy over the proposed Bidadi township, Mr. Vijayendra alleged that Mr. Shivakumar, after taking charge as Chief Minister, was hurrying through the project and resorting to high-handedness against the farmers.

While the government claims that 80% of farmers in Bidadi support the township project, Mr. Vijayendra claimed that the reality is that 70% to 80% of farmers oppose it. Farmers are understandably angry with the government as fertile land is being snatched away, he said, urging the Chief Minister to hold consultations with them and halt their eviction from the land.

Responding to a question, Mr. Vijayendra said the issue would be raised during the upcoming Legislature session. Apart from the township project, the BJP leader said the alleged misappropriation of funds under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme would also be discussed.