DK Shivakumar slams BJP, JDS over corruption allegations

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar launched a scathing attack on the BJP and JDS regarding the Muda scam, accusing them of being deeply entrenched in corruption. Speaking at the Janandolana event, a response to BJP's padayatra in Ramanagara, Shivakumar declared, "Corruption is the father, mother, brother, sister, and relative of BJP and JDS. The people of the State have given 135 seats for my leadership and 19 seats for Kumaraswamy's leadership."

Response to Kumaraswamy’s claims

Shivakumar addressed claims made by Kumaraswamy about his involvement in the pen drive case, which accused him of being behind the release of the Prajwal Revanna pen drive. "Kumaraswamy had falsely accused me of being behind the Prajwal Revanna pen drive release. Now, Kumaraswamy is saying that former BJP MLA Preetham Gowda was behind the pen drive release. Why is the BJP silent on Kumaraswamy's allegation that Preetham Gowda was involved? Why is the Prime Minister, who talks of women's safety, not talking about it?" he demanded.

Allegations against BJP leaders

Shivakumar didn't hold back, questioning the BJP's silence on corruption within their ranks. "Vijayendra called me the father of corruption yesterday. What did his father do to go to jail? Why did his father resign after shedding tears? Why did the Governor give permission to prosecute him when he was the CM? He should answer these questions," he asserted.

Defending the current government

He defended CM Siddaramaiah against recent accusations, explaining that land compensation issues had occurred under the BJP's tenure. "CM Siddaramaiah's wife has got a gift deed from her brother. What is wrong with it? She is asking for fair compensation for the land that was encroached upon by the Muda. Is that wrong?" he clarified.

Challenges and promises

Shivakumar challenged Kumaraswamy to provide answers regarding his assets and accusations of corruption. "Kumaraswamy has said he will answer my questions. I am waiting patiently for his answers. He has to tell the people of the State about all his assets," he stated.

Stability of the Congress government

He asserted the stability of the current Congress government, accusing the opposition of attempting to destabilize it. "They are trying to destabilize our government by November-December. Our government is not a pot to break so easily. They can't do anything to the government headed by Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. They are daydreaming," he declared.

Future of Congress in Karnataka

Shivakumar concluded by expressing confidence in the future of Congress in Karnataka and criticized the BJP's focus. "The Congress will rise in India once again. Congress will come back to power in Karnataka in 2028 too," he said. He noted that the BJP's padayatra was not for critical issues like Cauvery or Mekedatu but for less significant causes.