Disgruntled BJP leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal turned out to be the man in focus at the Panchamasali convention, thwarting attempts by ministers C C Patil and Murugesh Nirani of convincing Jaya Mrutyunjaya seer to withdraw the agitation.
A clear crowd favourite, his stand changed the direction of the protest, which was expected to culminate after the massive show of strength at Palace Grounds in the city on Sunday.
At the end of the convention, Jaya Mrutyunjaya seer - who had launched a padayatra at Kudalasangama in January for 2A reservation to Panchamasali community - stood to announce his decision on continuing the dharna.
Recalling the decision of the government to constitute a study on the Panchamasali community, he said Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa had sought more time to grant 2A status to the community.
“I am in a dilemma. On one hand, you have backed me in large numbers and on the other hand ministers C C Patil, Murugesh Nirani and MP Karadi Sanganna are requesting (to withdraw the protest). In that context..,” he said, hinting at a possible end to the agitation.
The gathering, however, was not pleased and erupted against any decision to call off the protest.
Attempts by Rajya Sabha member Eranna Kadadi to convince the crowd failed, after which the seer announced that he would take opinions from all leaders at the venue before taking the final call.
The seer sought BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal’s opinion first.
Yatnal, who, in his speech earlier, had set a deadline till the end of the budget session of the legislature to fulfill the community demands, stuck to his stand.
Urging the seers to continue the protest, he demanded that Yediyurappa clarify his position on granting reservation during the legislature session.
Ministers don’t matter
“The movement won’t stop. You ministers (Patil and Nirani) meet Yediyurappa and tell him to fulfill our demands. If he doesn’t, tell him that you’ll resign. How Yediyurappa doesn’t fulfill our demands I too shall see,” he said, to loud cheers from the crowd.
This angered minister Patil, who stormed off stage. Before this, he had attracted the wrath of the crowd thrice during the convention as he attempted to plead the government’s case.
Following the same, the seer announced to continue dharna till March 4, after which he would launch a fast-unto-death agitation, if the demands are not
met.
Deccan Herald is on WhatsApp Channels | Join now for Breaking News & Editor's Picks