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Time of India

Lakshmimidevi Fair turns political playground as BJP rebels gather in Gokak

Belagavi: The grand Lakshmimidevi fair, returning to Gokak town after a decade and drawing lakhs of devotees over the past week, turned into a political centre on Monday with the gathering of several BJP rebels. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Responding to an invitation by Gokak MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi, a group of BJP dissenters—including MLA BP Harish and former MLAs Arvind Limbavali, Kumar Bangarappa, Shrimant Patil, and Mahesh Kumathalli—gathered in Gokak and jointly offered prayers to the deity. Later, they held a meeting at the residence of Ramesh Jarkiholi. Speaking to media, former minister Kumar Bangarappa said, "We came on the invitation of Ramesh Jarkiholi." When asked about the possibility of any change in the BJP state leadership, he cautiously responded, "We better wait," and declined to comment on whether political discussions took place during the gathering. However, former Athani MLA Mahesh Kumathalli made a striking remark in support of expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal. "If Yatnal is not taken into confidence, the BJP will face serious trouble," he said. The gathering of rebels and Kumathalli's open endorsement of Yatnal have triggered fresh speculation and debate in state political circles.