Are BJP and JD(S) Set to Establish Coordination Panels?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Formation of two coordination committees between BJP and JD(S) is anticipated.
- Vijayendra criticized the Congress-led state government for its administration.
- Concerns were raised about the Valmiki Development Corporation scandal.
- The Contractors' Association alleges corruption in the irrigation sector.
- Illegal gambling activities are reportedly supported by local authorities.
Bengaluru, Oct 21 (NationPress) The Karnataka President of BJP and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra has announced intentions to establish two coordination panels between BJP and JD(S). He stated that these committees will be revealed shortly following discussions with party leaders.
On Tuesday, Vijayendra met with Union Minister and former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy to share Diwali greetings.
After their meeting, he conveyed to the media that they deliberated on the current political landscape within the state. He indicated that Kumaraswamy would provide nominations for the committees within the next 8-10 days.
“I have requested input on the BJP-JD(S) coordination committee. With the Greater Bengaluru elections on the horizon, Kumaraswamy suggested forming one committee focused on Bengaluru and another for the remainder of the state,” he elaborated.
Vijayendra criticized the Congress-led administration in the state, asserting that conditions in Bengaluru and beyond have deteriorated, with citizens lamenting the lack of progress. “You can all witness the chaos in Bengaluru city,” he remarked.
He further accused state ministers of being arrogant.
“When leaders from the IT sector, like Mohandas Pai and Biocon's Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, offer suggestions concerning Bengaluru and its infrastructure, ministers disregard them and even ridicule these esteemed individuals. This behavior undermines the dignity of the government,” Vijayendra stated.
He recalled that during Yediyurappa's leadership as Chief Minister, he welcomed Mohandas Pai for tea to consider his constructive criticism.
He spotlighted the Valmiki Development Corporation scandal, questioning whether the current leaders had overlooked it. “People are left wondering if a Tughlaq-style governance is at play here,” he commented.
He referenced BJP MP B.Y. Raghavendra’s claim regarding funds raised in Karnataka being diverted to Bihar for elections. “Ministers must clarify — why are Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar silent about the Valmiki scandal?” he challenged.
He alleged that the scam involved transferring money to Telangana, the opening of thousands of benami (fake) accounts, purchasing gold, and utilizing these funds during the Lok Sabha elections, claiming this has been confirmed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
Vijayendra also pointed out that the Contractors' Association has filed a letter alleging a demand for a 60-70 percent commission within the major irrigation department. “D.K. Shivakumar instructed them to submit an official complaint — when there’s an existing written letter, what additional proof is necessary?” he questioned.
Even the Chief Minister's own Economic Adviser, Basavaraj Rayareddy, has penned a letter indicating ongoing sand mafia activities, causing the Karnataka government to lose between Rs 400 to Rs 500 crore. “What further evidence is required to prove corruption in our state?” he queried.
He also claimed that illegal gambling operations such as 'Ispit' and 'Matka' are thriving in various districts, including Shivamogga, with backing from police officials and ruling party MLAs.
“Numerous individuals are being driven towards suicide due to these illicit activities. While Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar boast about Karnataka’s guarantees as a national model when visiting other states, these guarantees are not exemplary — cease the falsehoods. The public is acutely aware of the state’s exploitation,” he cautioned.
In response to an inquiry about Chittapur, he remarked, “I am unsure why Minister Priyank Kharge is behaving so irrationally. Criticizing the RSS is unnecessary. Is this merely a publicity stunt or a tactic to seize the Chief Minister’s position?” he questioned.
He noted that, according to AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge’s own remarks, Priyank seems to be isolated in this issue. “They are attempting to obscure the ruling party’s shortcomings by generating such distractions. The Path Sanchalan (route march) in Chittapur is set for success on November 2. There is no ambiguity regarding that,” he assured.
Present at the event were Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, MLA Krishnappa, BJP Bengaluru South District President and MLA C.K. Ramamurthy, and former MLA A. Manjunath.