The BJP in Karnataka staged a protest at Vidhan Soudha, calling for the resignation of Excise Minister R.B. Thimmapur over a Rs 2,500 crore excise scam. The party accused funds collected for the scam of financing Congress party’s election campaigns in Kerala, Assam, and Tamil Nadu. Led by R. Ashoka and B.Y. Vijayendra, the protest saw BJP members demanding Minister Thimmapur’s resignation and criticizing the Congress-led government.
Addressing the protest, R. Ashoka condemned the alleged corruption in the Excise Department, highlighting fixed monthly bribes imposed on bars and wine stores. He questioned the issuance of 1,500 to 2,000 new liquor shop licenses across the state and criticized the lack of action despite complaints to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Allegations were made regarding bribes for licenses and corruption involving ministers and commissioners.
R. Ashoka likened the situation to a movie, accusing the Chief Minister of turning a blind eye to corruption. He claimed a conspiracy to divert Rs 2,500 crore from Karnataka to Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala through corruption. The protest aimed to intensify pressure on the Minister to resign and warned of further demands, including the Chief Minister’s resignation in the next phase.
Criticizing the Congress for a protest march to the Governor’s residence, R. Ashoka accused the government of neglecting its duty to maintain law and order. He alleged that the government’s protests were distractions from internal corruption and infighting, using the Assembly session to divert attention from internal issues.
