Yeddyurappa all set to launch Karnataka Janata Party

Haveri (Karna),Dec 9: Famous for cardamom processing and a gateway to North Karnataka, Haveri town is all decked up to play host to the launch of a new regional political outfit today, floated by former

strongman BS Yeddyurappa.

At the launch-function, a disgruntled Yeddyurappa, who rebelled against the BJP leadership for their "ill-treatment" towards him, will take over the mantle of the Karnataka Janata Party through which he plans to realise his dream of becoming chief minister again.

The KJP, which is yet to test the electoral waters and is gearing up for the assembly elections, due in May next, has already generated intense debate among political circles.

After visiting the venue yesterday, Yeddyurappa warned BJP leaders against cracking the whip on MLAs, Ministers and MPs who support him.

"I will give a befitting reply to them (BJP),if they take action against my supporters. Some ministers, MLAs and MPs are enthusiastic to participate in tomorrow's rally, in spite of my request not to attend", the Lingayat strongman said.

"I want this government to complete its term. If they create a situation wherein it falls, I am not responsible", he said, warning such a step would spell trouble for the Jagadish Shettar-led ministry.

BJP MLA from Haveri Nehru Olekar, Shivaraj Sajjnar, MLC and Suresh Gowda Patil have been in the forefront of the arrangements for the KJP show and they are being assisted by former minister H Halappa, BP Harish and BY Raghavendra, MP and Yeddyurappa's son.

A huge pandal has been erected on a 35-acre land with a seating arrangement for 300 on the dais and 1.5 lakh spectators.

PTI