Bengaluru: It seems BJP state president B S Yeddyurappa who will lead the saffron party in the 2018 state general election is slowly but surely losing many friends within the party. After KS Eshwarappa, none other than former DCM and Vokkaliga strongman R Ashok all set to raise voice against BSY.

According to the party sources, R Ashok is unhappy with BSY’s decision to induct real estate baron, a former associate of energy minister DK Shivakumar, Mr. Varaprasad Reddy into the party fold. Mr. Reddy was inducted to BJP on Sunday.

According to the leaders close to R Ashok, he is upset with BSY for not consulting with him prior to taking an important decision in connection to party Bengaluru city unit. “R Ashok wanted to have his say in the distribution of tickets in all 28 city constituencies. He is against Reddy as he is eyeing on BTM layout constituency against transport minister Mr. Ramalinga Reddy. But R Ashok wants some one from his group as a candidate,” said a leader.

“Ananth Kumar is also opposed to the induction of Mr. Reddy fearing it may hit the party image. Issue has been raised with party national leaders already,” he added.

Even in the past, there have allegations against BSY and his style of functioning. Many loyal party workers have been disheartened by the dictatorial and unilateral decision making of BSY, it is said.