Is Karnataka's Deputy CM Shivakumar Intimidating Industrialists?
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Synopsis
In a recent controversy, the Karnataka BJP accused Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of threatening industrialists. As companies like Foxconn consider leaving the state, allegations of corruption and anti-investment policies have surfaced. The BJP claims these actions are detrimental to Karnataka's industrial growth. Dive into the details of this unfolding political drama.
Key Takeaways
- D.K. Shivakumar is accused of intimidating industrialists.
- Concerns are raised over Foxconn's potential exit from Karnataka.
- The BJP criticizes the Congress government's anti-investment policies.
- Allegations of corruption involving Sarfaraz Khan have surfaced.
- Political tensions are impacting Karnataka's industrial landscape.
Bengaluru, Dec 27 (NationPress) In light of discussions regarding Foxconn's potential exit from Karnataka, the State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of intimidating industrialists within the region.
During a press conference in Bengaluru, Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra stated: "Over the past two and a half years, numerous companies, including Ather Energy, have relocated from the state. Toyota has shifted to another state, and Foxconn's second unit has also departed."
He claimed that many industrialists are leaving Karnataka due to the Congress government's anti-investment policies.
Vijayendra pointed out that the agreement with Foxconn was established when BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai was the Chief Minister, questioning the current State Minister for IT and Biotechnology Priyank Kharge and State Industries Minister M.B. Patil regarding their stance.
The State BJP President accused Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar of intimidating state industrialists.
He noted that apartment associations had reached out to Deputy CM Shivakumar in Bengaluru, voicing their concerns, yet felt threatened.
Vijayendra alleged that the state government had devolved into goondaism and is failing to address critical issues.
He referenced the recent Lokayukta raids on Sarfaraz Khan, an aide to Karnataka Housing Minister Zameer Ahmad Khan, where Rs 14.35 crore was seized, questioning if this was not corruption.
He remarked that senior Congress MLA B.R. Patil had accused Sarfaraz Khan of demanding bribes a year prior, with an audio recording leaked, and inquired about the actions taken by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Vijayendra questioned why Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is taking a lenient approach in this situation.
He asserted that Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and the Congress party cannot accept Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity.
“They (Congress) continually criticize the Centre while achieving nothing themselves,” he stated.
He added that the Union government has renamed the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G), which has also drawn criticism against Prime Minister Modi.
Vijayendra questioned whether Congress has the moral authority to criticize the Prime Minister.
He emphasized that Prime Minister Modi has realized Mahatma Gandhi's vision of a “Clean India”, accusing Congress of feigning concern for Gandhiji.
To ensure that younger generations remember leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and B.R. Ambedkar, the NDA government under PM Modi has established memorials—something Congress has neglected.
He noted that the Modi-led Union government has constructed 12 crore toilets and enhanced the Sabarmati Ashram, criticizing Congress and CM Siddaramaiah for opposing mere name changes.
He alleged that Congress is unable to tolerate Prime Minister Modi due to his roots in an extremely backward community.
Vijayendra expressed that during the recent Winter session of the Karnataka Assembly in Belagavi, Ministers exhibited a lack of seriousness in addressing pressing state issues.
He claimed that Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar provided incorrect information to the House regarding the release of funds under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme and subsequently had to apologize.
Vijayendra also raised concerns about the involvement of State Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda in a land scam.
He mentioned that despite extensive discussions on the challenges faced in North Karnataka, farmers' issues, and law and order, the state government and Chief Minister failed to provide adequate responses regarding agricultural problems, irrigation projects, and challenges in North Karnataka.
He alleged that Ministers squandered time in breakfast and dinner meetings before the Winter session, which continued amid power struggles, infighting, and meetings, rather than focusing on solutions to North Karnataka's issues.
Vijayendra suggested that unless leadership dilemmas within Congress were resolved, the Assembly session should be postponed.
Bengaluru Central MP P.C. Mohan, MLAs M. Krishnappa and K. Gopalaiah, along with State Chief Spokesperson C.N. Ashwath Narayan were in attendance.
Point of View
The recent accusations against Deputy CM Shivakumar highlight a significant political tension in Karnataka. The BJP's claims suggest a growing concern over industrial stability in the state, prompting questions about governance and investment policies. This situation requires careful monitoring as it could impact Karnataka's economic landscape and its attractiveness to potential investors.
NationPress
11/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the accusations against D.K. Shivakumar?
D.K. Shivakumar is accused of threatening industrialists in Karnataka, particularly in the context of companies like Foxconn considering leaving the state.
What impact could this situation have on Karnataka's economy?
If industrialists feel threatened, it could lead to a decrease in investment and economic growth in Karnataka.
How has the BJP responded to the situation?
The BJP has criticized the Congress government's policies, claiming they are anti-investment and detrimental to industrial growth in the state.
What was discussed during the recent Winter session of the Karnataka Assembly?
The Assembly discussed various issues, including the involvement of Minister Krishna Byre Gowda in a land scam and the government's response to farmers' problems.
Who attended the press conference where these allegations were made?
Bengaluru Central MP P.C. Mohan, MLAs M. Krishnappa and K. Gopalaiah, and State Chief Spokesperson C.N. Ashwath Narayan were present.
