Lack of coordination and quota led to Karnataka defeat: BJP leaders

Lack of coordination among leaders, quota within quota for SCs and five promises announced by Congress were cited as the primary reasons for loss in Karnataka during a poll review meeting held by BJP in Bengaluru.

The anti-incumbency against the party's state government and inability to counter Congress '40% Sarkara campaign' were also cited as major reasons for BJP's defeat, sources said.

The meeting was attended by BJP general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh, national general secretaries Arun Singh, CT Ravi, state unit head Nalin Kateel and former CM Basavaraj Bommai.


The party leaders held discussion meetings with its election management committee and district presidents.

District presidents pointed at lack of coordination among state's senior leaders and internal quota for SCs for the loss as the quota move turned sections of SCs, like Lambanis, against it, sources said.

There was unanimity in the meeting that the BJP could not match five promises announced by Congress, sources said.

Party leaders categorically stated the BJP failed miserably to counter Congress 'Pay40CM' and '40% Sarkara' campaigns, sources added.