Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President, D.K. Shivakumar, addressed claims by the Opposition, stating that the Excise Minister is not linked to the excise controversy in the state. He emphasized that the issue is being blown out of proportion deliberately. Shivakumar plans to discuss the matter with the Chief Minister before responding, citing a political conspiracy.
The BJP leaders are set to raise the excise issue in the Assembly under Rule 69, anticipating a dramatic session. Meanwhile, the Karnataka BJP has called for an investigation by a High Court judge or the CBI into an alleged excise scam in the state. BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra criticized the state government as ‘corrupt and immoral,’ leading a protest alongside JD(S) members.
Vijayendra highlighted alleged irregularities in the Excise Department, accusing officials of demanding hefty bribes for postings. He criticized the government for allowing liquor sales in rural stores and condoning illegal liquor trade. Responding to demands for his resignation, Excise Minister Timmapur affirmed that he would not step down and would address the accusations in the Assembly session.
