Karnataka Congress chief B.K. Hariprasad criticized BJP leaders, questioning their moral authority to criticize Congress and urging a CBI investigation into alleged irregularities linked to the Ram Temple. Hariprasad, addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, targeted BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra, dubbing him “Baby Yediyurappa” and condemning his comments on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.
Hariprasad highlighted that leaders facing corruption allegations lacked the credibility to preach ethics to Congress. He specifically mentioned the National Herald case, emphasizing the pending matter for a decade and the regulatory constraints under the Companies Act governing National Herald’s assets.
Accusing BJP leaders of evading queries on cases against their own leadership, including corruption allegations, Hariprasad alleged Vijayendra’s defense of individuals accused of misappropriating donations from the Ram Temple. He demanded accountability from the Uttar Pradesh government for the reported theft of funds and assets worth approximately Rs 200 crore from the temple.
Hariprasad called for the resignations of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, holding them morally responsible for the Ram Temple’s construction and consecration. He reiterated Congress’s call for a CBI probe into the alleged temple fund theft, expressing skepticism about the agency’s independence under the Central government’s influence.
Responding to questions about Karnataka’s involvement in the temple theft case, Hariprasad mentioned the questioning of individuals linked to Hindu organizations. He accused the BJP and RSS of exploiting the Ram Temple in the guise of religion, likening the situation to historical temple plundering and lamenting the intrusion of corruption into religious affairs.
Regarding an RSS meeting in Belagavi, Hariprasad deferred comments until after the meeting’s conclusion. He referenced past gatherings followed by the murders of rationalists and a journalist, hinting at potential consequences post the current meeting.
