R. Ashoka dismisses claims of seeking BJP state president post
Bengaluru: Karnataka Opposition Leader R. Ashoka has clarified that he has never sought the BJP state president post and is focused on his responsibilities as the opposition leader.
Speaking to reporters, Ashoka dismissed speculation about his aspirations for the position, stating, "I have not applied for the state president post, nor have I even thought about it. My duty is to fight against the anti-people policies of the government as the opposition leader, and I am fulfilling that responsibility given to me by my seniors."
Ashoka acknowledged ongoing internal issues within the party and emphasized the need for unity. "It is unfortunate that there are conflicts within the party. Everyone should have adjusted and moved forward together. I have discussed Basanagouda Patil Yatnal's faction with senior BJP leaders and want all problems to be resolved," he said.
He further pointed out that party elections are being held across the country, not just in Karnataka, and that everyone's opinions are being considered. Expressing concern over infighting, he said, "It is disheartening to see members blaming each other. Everyone should adhere to the instructions of the national leadership. The party has faced setbacks due to these issues, but I believe they will be resolved soon."
Addressing media reports that suggested he had sought advice from the RSS, Ashoka categorically denied them, stating, "The RSS is not a political party, and there is no system where I could have gone there to seek or give advice. I have not met anyone regarding this. The decision on the state president post will be taken by the senior leadership of the party."
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RCB beat MI by 18 runs after batters fire
Mumbai (PTI): Royal Challengers Bengaluru skipper Rajat Patidar, Phil Salt and Virat Kohli blasted half-centuries as the defending champions beat Mumbai Indians by 18 runs in an Indian Premier League match here on Sunday.
Salt (78 off 36 balls) and Kohli (50 off 38 balls) stitched together a 120-run stand for the opening wicket before Patidar scored a rapid 53 off just 20 balls as RCB posted 240 for 4.
In response, Mumbai Indians were restricted to 222 for 5, with RCB spinner Suyash Sharma (2/47) putting the skids on the home side with a double strike in the eighth over, from which they could not recover.
Sherfane Rutherford top-scored for MI with an unbeaten 71 off 31 balls.
While opener Rohit Sharma appeared to be struggling with a hamstring issue and had to retire hurt on 19, his partner Ryan Rickelton made 37, while Suryakumar Yadav (33) and Hardik Pandya (40) were the other contributors for MI.
Brief scores:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru 240 for 4 in 20 overs (Phil Salt 78, Virat Kohli 50, Rajat Patidar 53, Tim David 35 not out).
Mumbai Indians: 222 for 5 in 20 overs (Sherfane Rutherford 71 not out, Ryan Rickelton 37, Hardik Pandya 40; Suyash Sharma 2/47).
