Bengaluru, Feb 13 (NationPress) The BJP in Karnataka has raised concerns regarding the apparent silence of Lok Sabha's Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, regarding the alleged excise scam worth Rs 2,500 crore in the state.

On Friday, R. Ashoka, the Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, criticized Rahul Gandhi, stating, "In Parliament, Rahul Gandhi performs daily by brandishing various files, making sweeping accusations, and declaring that the nation has been sold. He positions himself as the judge, jury, and auditor of the Republic, blaming others for compromise."

"However, when it comes to questions about Karnataka, the performance ceases," Ashoka remarked.

"Serious allegations have emerged concerning the operations of the Excise Department in Karnataka. The Karnataka BJP has called for an investigation, but the Congress-led government has denied any wrongdoing. Furthermore, the self-proclaimed auditor of the Republic, Rahul Gandhi, has remained completely silent," Ashoka emphasized, questioning his lack of response.

"Have CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar turned Karnataka into a revenue outpost for the Congress High Command? Has governance been replaced by collection efforts? Are excise decisions being made for public welfare or for political funding?" Ashoka interrogated.

"Rahul Gandhi accuses others of 'selling' the country, but the people of Karnataka are now asking: Who is negotiating away Karnataka's interests? Karnataka deserves answers. The lingering question is: Why is Rahul Gandhi silent on the Excise Files of Karnataka?" Ashoka continued.

It is noteworthy that the Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been targeting the Congress-led government over the alleged excise department scam amounting to Rs 2,500 crore.

The party has demanded action against Excise Minister R.B. Thimmapur and has also questioned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's silence on the matter.

While addressing the Assembly, Ashoka stated, "Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who often claims, 'my life is an open book,' what is the reason for your silence despite such serious allegations and substantial evidence? When such extensive illegal activities are happening right under your nose, why do you choose to remain silent?"

"There is credible evidence supporting allegations of a massive scam that could amount to Rs 2,500 crore due to forced extortion from liquor shops in the name of 'monthly money,'" Ashoka charged.

It's important to mention that the excise department scam has taken a new turn, with three officers, including a Deputy Commissioner, arrested, and the BJP alleging Minister R.B. Thimmapur's involvement.

This situation has become a significant embarrassment for the government.

A complaint has been lodged against Minister Thimmapur with the Karnataka Lokayukta, and BJP leaders have released purported audio clips allegedly recording an officer demanding a share for the minister.