Nalin Kumar Kateel’s future as state BJP president uncertain after loss

Though his three-year term as BJP president had ended last year, the party decided to give him an extension, owing to the impending Assembly polls. But following the defeat, Kateel is expected to be replaced in the coming days.

In the run-up to the polls, Kateel had stoked several controversies, such as suggesting that “those who support Tipu Sultan should not stay in this land”, and by instructing party workers to focus on topics like “love jihad” over civic issues affecting the people, during their campaign.

He is known for his provocative speeches, and had once threatened to “torch Dakshina Kannada district” during a protest in front of the Konaje police station in the said district.

Following the results, Kateel congratulated those elected as MLAs. “The Congress is ahead, I congratulate them. In the coming days, we will back the government over its good decisions and work as a responsible opposition party,” he said.

He added, “I thank party workers and leaders who strove to ensure a BJP win. Our government has done good development work. Yet, we have got an unexpected result. We accept it. BJP has faced a setback. As the BJP state president, I take responsibility for the loss,” he said.