Following outrage, BJP cancels Pramod Muthalik's membership into the party fold

In perhaps one of the fastest political recalls of our times, BJP withdrew the membership of controversial chief of Ram Sene Pramod Muthalik. 

Following strong outrage against the party's decision to bring the right wing leader into their fold, from many of their own followers, may have prompted immediate action.

In 1 hour membership will be cancelled, party has informed the state unit: Nirmala Sitharaman on Pramod Muthalik

— ANI (@ANI_news) March 23, 2014

Reports suggest that the central leadership did not take very kindly to the decision of Muthalik's inclusion, which is believed to have been done without their knowledge.

Muthalik shot to fame in 2009, following his attack on women at a pub in Mangalore on grounds of 'morality'. He was arrested following the incident, but remained insistent that his actions were aimed at “protecting the women”.

This sparked the infamous nationwide 'Pink Chaddi campaign' against the Ram Sene's action.

So, it comes as no surprise that even many among the party's dedicated followers tracing BJP's clarion call of development, would be angered at Muthalik's inclusion.

In no time following the decision, the hashtag #NoMuthalik took social media by storm, with the otherwise ardent BJP supporters urging party leaders to reconsider the decision, some even with threats to withdraw their votes.

A petition on change.org was also already floated on the matter.

@narendramodi but not with ppl like Muthalik who are a disgrace to our plural society.Its left to you now to sort out this. #NoMuthalik(n/n)

— Pratik Gupta (@pratik_p_gupta) March 23, 2014

This guy Muthalik cannot belong to any sane outfit. BJP should send him back to his fringe outfit.

— Swapan Dasgupta (@swapan55) March 23, 2014

All BJP supporters must express their clear anger against this move by BJP Karnataka. #NoMuthalik

— Morattu Thamizhan (@Morattu1) March 23, 2014

Many BJP leaders, such as Manohar Parrikar, too, expressed, disapproval of this move.

I have urged central leadership to cancel his membership: Manohar Parrikar (Goa CM) on Pramod Muthalik joining BJP

— ANI (@ANI_news) March 23, 2014

His membership should be cancelled: Manohar Parrikar (Goa CM) opposes Pramod Muthalik joining BJP

— ANI (@ANI_news) March 23, 2014

Modi needs someone in his cultural ministry, Pramod Muthalik fits in perfectly. He beats girls in pub, attacks a church: Shivanand Tiwari

— ANI (@ANI_news) March 23, 2014

The withdrawal, on the other hand, has been received with much jubilation by the BJP supporters and is seen as a sign of solidarity to the cause of women's development.