Is the Opposition Overstating the Issue? Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar Responds
Synopsis
Karnataka Dy CM D.K. Shivakumar has accused the Opposition of exaggerating the excise controversy involving Minister R.B. Timmapur. Amidst demands for resignation and protests by the BJP, Shivakumar plans to discuss the matter further with the Chief Minister, emphasizing a political conspiracy at play.
Key Takeaways
Karnataka's political atmosphere is tense due to accusations of corruption.
Shivakumar defends Minister Timmapur against Opposition claims.
The BJP is calling for an investigation into the alleged excise scam.
Protests are being held near the Vidhana Soudha.
Political conspiracies are suggested by Shivakumar in response to the controversy.
Bengaluru, Jan 28 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President, D.K. Shivakumar, asserted on Wednesday that the Opposition is intentionally inflating the issue and that the Minister for Excise is not involved in the ongoing excise controversy in the state.
When questioned about the Opposition's call for the resignation of Minister for Excise R.B. Timmapur, Shivakumar remarked, “In my opinion, R.B. Timmapur has absolutely no ties to the controversy. The Opposition is deliberately exaggerating the matter. I will confer with the Chief Minister on this issue and then provide a detailed response. There is a political conspiracy at play.”
The BJP leaders are raising the matter in the Assembly under Rule 69 today, which is expected to lead to significant drama.
On Tuesday, the Karnataka BJP demanded an investigation by a sitting High Court judge or the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into what they claim is an excise scam in the state.
Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra mentioned that the BJP and JD(S) are jointly protesting against what he described as a 'corrupt and immoral' state government near the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Vidhana Soudha.
He noted that the protest included Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly R. Ashoka, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, and JD(S) leaders Suresh Babu and Bhojegowda, along with various MLAs and MLCs from both parties.
Vijayendra claimed that the name of the Excise Minister is being implicated in the alleged excise scam and stated, “Despite this, the Chief Minister is preventing a discussion on the matter in the House.”
He further alleged that it has become impossible for officials to secure postings in the Excise Department without paying substantial bribes. “Consequently, the government has permitted liquor sales even in rural grocery stores and authorized illegal liquor sales, thereby filling its coffers. Karnataka has never witnessed such a shameless and disgraceful government in its history,” he said.
In response to the BJP's protest and their demand for his resignation, Timmapur stated on Tuesday that he would not resign and would provide clarifications in the House.
He declared, “I will not resign. Let the BJP raise the issue during the session. I will address the allegations and offer clarifications.”
Point of View
It's crucial to monitor their implications on governance and public perception.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the excise controversy in Karnataka?
The excise controversy involves allegations of corruption related to the state's excise department and the involvement of key political figures.
Who is R.B. Timmapur?
R.B. Timmapur is the Minister for Excise in Karnataka and has been accused of being linked to the ongoing excise controversy.
What are the Opposition's demands?
The Opposition is demanding the resignation of Minister R.B. Timmapur and a thorough investigation into the alleged excise scam.
What did D.K. Shivakumar say about the Opposition's claims?
D.K. Shivakumar claimed that the Opposition is deliberately exaggerating the issue and that Timmapur has no connection with the controversy.
What actions are being taken by the BJP?
The BJP is staging protests and demanding an investigation by a High Court judge or the CBI into the alleged excise scam.
