Bengaluru: Opposition Parties Escalate Pressure on Karnataka Government Over Excise Scam Allegations
In a significant political development in Bengaluru, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular) have dramatically intensified their pressure on the Karnataka government, demanding the immediate removal of minister RB Timmapur from the council of ministers. The opposition's demand stems from serious allegations of a multi-crore scam within the excise department, which has created substantial turmoil in the state's political landscape.
Assembly Proceedings Disrupted by Opposition Protests
The political confrontation reached a boiling point on Tuesday when BJP members stormed into the well of the legislative assembly, vociferously reiterating their demand for Minister Timmapur's resignation. This marked a continuation of protests that began last Friday when the opposition first raised the explosive issue, leading to multiple adjournments of the House due to the sustained uproar from the well.
During the heated session, leader of opposition R Ashoka presented what he claimed to be compelling evidence, including videos and audio recordings allegedly documenting corruption within the excise department. Ashoka pointedly questioned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's reluctance to seek the minister's resignation and insisted that the matter be discussed under an adjournment motion, which would prioritize the issue over regular business.
Speaker's Ruling and Continued Opposition Stance
As BJP members raised slogans against the government, Speaker UT Khader acknowledged hearing the opposition's preliminary submission but clarified that the matter could not be taken up under an adjournment motion. However, he noted that the opposition could raise the issue under another procedural rule, offering a potential pathway for further discussion.
Following the speaker's ruling, BJP members temporarily withdrew their protest, allowing the House to resume normal functioning. However, they maintained their firm stance, insisting that they must be given an opportunity to raise the matter substantively in the near future, indicating that the political battle is far from over.
Minister's Strong Rejection of Allegations
Outside the assembly, Minister RB Timmapur categorically dismissed all allegations against him, characterizing them as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation and undermine the government's credibility. "The opposition is unnecessarily trying to defame me and the government. If they have evidence, let them show it," Timmapur asserted, challenging his accusers to produce concrete proof of wrongdoing.
Timmapur received strong backing from Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who denounced the allegations as completely baseless. "These allegations are bogus. They are trying to defame a Dalit minister," Shivakumar declared, suggesting that the opposition's motives might extend beyond mere political scrutiny.
Broader Political Protests and Additional Demands
Earlier in the day, BJP and JD(S) members staged a coordinated protest in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Vidhana Soudha, amplifying their demand for accountability. The opposition parties also raised another contentious issue, seeking the suspension of MLAs who allegedly obstructed Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot as he was departing after delivering his address to the joint sitting of the legislature.
BJP state president BY Vijayendra launched a scathing attack on the Chief Minister and his administration, accusing them of treating Governor Gehlot "like a bonded labourer," further escalating the political rhetoric and highlighting the deepening tensions between the ruling party and the opposition.
The unfolding political drama in Bengaluru underscores the intense scrutiny facing the Karnataka government as it navigates these serious allegations. With the opposition determined to pursue the matter and the government standing firmly behind its minister, the stage is set for continued political confrontation that could have significant implications for the state's governance and political stability.
