In Karnataka, a scandal involving the excise department has taken a new turn as three officers, including a Deputy Commissioner, were arrested. The BJP has accused Minister R.B. Thimmapur of being involved, causing a stir ahead of the upcoming legislative session. The Chief Minister has demanded an explanation from the Minister, who claims that officials misused his sons’ names for personal gain.
The situation has put the government in an awkward position, especially as the Chief Minister had been rallying support against a specific law. Alleged audio recordings released by the BJP suggest a demand for kickbacks, prompting calls for the Minister’s resignation. The opposition has urged the Chief Minister to act decisively, with threats of further action if no steps are taken.
Following a complaint, the Karnataka Lokayukta arrested the Deputy Commissioner and two other officials for allegedly accepting bribes for issuing a bar license. The accused were caught red-handed while receiving the initial payment. The complaint detailed demands for substantial sums in exchange for licensing approvals, leading to swift arrests by the authorities.
