Amid protests, BJP appoints Vokkaliga as LoP in Karnataka assembly

R Ashoka has been chosen as the leader of the opposition (LoP) in the state assembly by the BJP in Bengaluru. Ashoka, a seven-time MLA and former deputy CM, was elected amid protests and boycotts by senior MLAs. The election had its share of drama, with aspirant Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and colleague Ramesh Jarkiholi walking out after Yatnal's candidature was overlooked. Two turncoat MLAs are expected to join the Congress ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. With this appointment, BJP aims to secure support from two powerful communities in the upcoming polls.