Karnataka Minister claims BJP targeting Priyank Kharge over policy criticism​on December 31, 2024 at 11:56 am

Karnataka Minister claims BJP targeting Priyank Kharge over policy criticism

​Karnataka Minister claims BJP targeting Priyank Kharge over policy criticism Karnataka Minister claims BJP targeting Priyank Kharge over policy criticism   

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara, on Tuesday, defended his cabinet colleague, Priyank Kharge, who is embroiled in a controversy following the suicide of a contractor, Sachin Monappa Panchal. The contractor allegedly left behind a note accusing Raju Kapanur, a close aide of Kharge, of extorting money for a contract and threatening his life.

Parameshwara criticised the BJP for making baseless allegations against Kharge, emphasising that there was no concrete evidence linking him to the incident. “Priyank Kharge has clarified that his name is not mentioned in the suicide note. Allegations without proof are not right,” Parameshwara said. He added that the truth would be uncovered through a CID investigation, which has already been initiated.

The suicide note, found after Panchal’s death on December 26 claimed that Kapanur demanded Rs 1 crore in exchange for a contract and threatened to kill the contractor when he failed to comply. The note also implicated seven other individuals, accusing them of cheating and taking a bribe of Rs 15 lakh.

In response to BJP’s demand for Kharge’s resignation and their threat to intensify protests, Parameshwara urged the opposition to refrain from baseless accusations. “If there is evidence of Kharge’s involvement, we will accept it, but unfounded allegations are unacceptable,” he stated.

BJP also set a January 4 deadline for the case to be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation, warning of a major rally and siege of Kharge’s residence if their demand is not met. The party claimed the ongoing CID investigation was insufficient.

On the issue of Kapanur’s arrest, Parameshwara explained that the case was being handled by the CID, and further details would be revealed during the investigation.

Parameshwara addressed the BJP’s ongoing political attacks against Kharge, suggesting that their criticism stemmed from his public criticism of BJP and JD(S) policies. “They don’t like Priyank Kharge pointing out their mistakes, which is why they are targeting him,” he said.