Did Karnataka Congress Expel Minister Priyank Kharge's Aide Over Drug Charges?
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Synopsis
The Karnataka Congress has taken decisive action by expelling Lingaraj Kanni, an aide to Minister Priyank Kharge, following his arrest for drug peddling. This incident has sparked a strong response from Kharge, urging the BJP to act against its own members facing serious allegations.
Key Takeaways
- Lingaraj Kanni expelled from the Karnataka Congress.
- Arrested by Maharashtra Police for drug peddling.
- Possession of 120 bottles of codeine syrup.
- Minister Priyank Kharge emphasizes the party's accountability.
- Political tensions between Congress and BJP highlighted.
Bengaluru, July 14 (NationPress) - The Karnataka Congress party has officially expelled Lingaraj Kanni, a close aide to Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT Priyank Kharge, after his recent arrest on drug trafficking allegations by the Maharashtra Police on Monday.
Lingaraj Kanni, who held the position of President of the Kalaburagi South Block Congress Unit, was apprehended by the Maharashtra Police. Consequently, the District Congress Committee of Kalaburagi has taken swift action to remove him from the party.
District Congress President and MLC Jayadeva Guttedara Kalagi confirmed that due to media revelations regarding Lingaraj Kanni's supposed involvement in drug peddling, he has been expelled from the party effective immediately.
In response to these events, Minister Priyank Kharge remarked, "The BJP can act as they wish. We are a law-abiding party. Upon hearing the news, we promptly suspended him."
"He was apprehended with cough syrup valued at approximately Rs 27,000. Regardless of the amount, whether it's Rs 27,000 or Rs 27 crore, we took action because we uphold our responsibilities as a party. The BJP should also demonstrate accountability by suspending their MLAs facing allegations of serious crimes such as rape and POCSO cases," Kharge insisted.
"Let them lead by example before questioning our actions. We maintain a strict no-tolerance policy for lawbreakers in our ranks. The BJP must also take action against its own leaders. There are videos circulating from Mangaluru and Karwar—they need to address that as well," Kharge added.
"Have they even commented on the former JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna, who is currently jailed due to an obscene video scandal? At least we have the courage to take action. According to the BJP, I am the scapegoat for every issue, be it in Karnataka, Kalaburagi, or even Canada. For the last two years, they have tried everything to undermine me. Let them try this as well," he stated.
The Maharashtra Police apprehended Lingaraj Kanni in Thane, where he was reportedly found with narcotic substances and was allegedly attempting to sell them. Authorities discovered 120 bottles of a prohibited codeine-based syrup in his possession.
A case has been initiated against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at the Bazarpeth Police Station.
Kanni had joined the Congress during the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections. Prior to this, he was associated with the BJP.
Point of View
This incident underscores the importance of accountability within political parties. The Karnataka Congress's swift action reflects a commitment to uphold integrity, while the call for the BJP to address its own issues highlights the ongoing political tensions in the region. As always, it is critical to maintain transparency and responsibility in governance.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Lingaraj Kanni expelled from the Congress?
Lingaraj Kanni was expelled from the Congress after his arrest by Maharashtra Police on drug peddling charges.
What was found in Lingaraj Kanni's possession?
He was found with 120 bottles of a banned codeine-based syrup valued at around Rs 27,000.
Who is Priyank Kharge?
Priyank Kharge is the Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT in Karnataka.
What is the NDPS Act?
The NDPS Act is the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, which regulates the control and enforcement of drug-related offenses.
What political party was Lingaraj Kanni affiliated with before Congress?
Before joining Congress, Lingaraj Kanni was affiliated with the BJP.
