New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday lashed out against Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj, accusing him of using Raj Bhavan for 'political purposes' and has demanded his recall.
"He has defied all norms of political impartiality and constitutionality," senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley told reporters here.
The BJP government in Karnataka has been in the thick of a crisis since 11 of the partymen, along with five Independents, rebelled against the leadership of Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa.
The chief minister won a confidence motion in the state assembly by voice vote amidst chaotic scenes Monday, but Governor Bhardwaj recommended President's rule in the state. The governor also gave Yeddyurappa a "fresh opportunity" to prove majority in the house again by Oct 14.
"He has allowed Raj Bhavan to be used for political purposes, for the purpose of destabilizing the government and horse-trading," said Jaitley.
He alleged that leaders of the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S), Congress and rebel members of the legislative assembly "who have defied the anti-defection law have been operating out of Raj Bhavan".
"All this indicates that the governor has completely lost his impartiality. He cannot be the custodian of the constitution in the state," Jaitley said, adding, "The central government must immediately recall the governor."