Expelled MLA Yatnal Claims 'Real Opposition Leader' Title in Karnataka Assembly

Senior Karnataka MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, recently expelled from the BJP, demands a front-row seat in the legislative Assembly, claiming the title of 'real opposition leader'. He argued seniority should guide seating assignments as he made his appeal to the Speaker against his backbench position.

In a bold assertion, senior legislator Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, expelled from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has proclaimed himself the 'real opposition leader' within the Karnataka legislative Assembly. Urging a front-row seat, Yatnal directed his plea to the Assembly Speaker, citing his senior stature as justification.

The demands surfaced as Yatnal and two other former BJP MLAs faced demotion to backbench positions following their expulsion earlier this year. Yatnal's appeal highlighted disrespect to senior legislators due to their seating arrangements, insisting on a change reflective of their electoral seniority.

However, Speaker U T Khader refuted the notion of seniority-based seating, emphasizing party power dynamics. Despite previous front-row preference as a BJP member, Yatnal's expulsion altered his status. Countering the presence of official Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka, Yatnal stressed his unyielding stance against party politics as proof of his genuine opposition leadership.

(With inputs from agencies.)