Shivakumar Refutes Connection Between Minister Priyank Kharge and Contractor's Suicide
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Bengaluru, Dec 30 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar reiterated the administration's pledge to transparency while defending Minister Priyank Kharge from claims associating him with a contractor's suicide. Addressing the press in Bengaluru, Shivakumar made it clear, “Priyank Kharge has no connection with this incident. His name does not appear in the contractor's suicide note. It is unjust to demand his resignation based on ambiguous accusations. We uphold his integrity, and the matter will be thoroughly investigated according to the law.”
The Deputy CM criticized BJP leader Vijayendra for sharing images of the accused, Raju Kapanuru, alongside Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Minister Priyank Kharge. “I also possess pictures with Vijayendra and Yeddyurappa. Numerous individuals meet with us or take photographs during events. Should I reveal similar images of them with dubious characters? If there are solid proofs of dealings or discussions, let them present it,” he remarked.
Regarding the BJP’s call for a CBI inquiry, Shivakumar stated, “Let them protest. If required, we can consolidate all cases and submit them to the CBI. During the BJP's tenure, they only referred my case to the CBI, while our Congress government referred 12 cases, including those involving IAS officer D.K. Ravi, Soujanya, and Hindu activist Paresh Mesta. Why didn’t they send cases concerning their ministers?”
“This is not a matter for the CBI. Our investigative agencies are capable of managing it. We are aware of the CBI’s methodology,” he added.
Shivakumar dismissed demands for Kharge’s resignation, asserting, “There’s no possibility of Priyank Kharge resigning. He has committed no wrongdoing. The opposition is targeting him as they cannot stand a Dalit leader’s success. He has adeptly managed the IT-BT department, accomplishing substantial advancements.”
Concerning irregularities in KPSC examinations, Shivakumar vowed to take action, ensuring justice for those impacted. In response to BJP leaders meeting the Governor to file complaints, he quipped, “Let them keep thinking about us -- it only strengthens us.”
While discussing preparations for New Year’s Eve, Shivakumar extended warm wishes to the public and emphasized security measures, including the installation of over 1,000 cameras across Bengaluru to guarantee safety.
The controversy emerged following the suicide of Sachin, a 26-year-old contractor in Kalaburagi, who allegedly faced threats and extortion from Raju Kapanuru, an aide to Priyank Kharge. Sachin’s seven-page suicide note accused Kapanuru of various alleged wrongdoings.
Opposition figures, including BJP’s Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, charged Kharge with misuse of power and demanded his resignation. The BJP intends to escalate its protests, advocating for a CBI inquiry into the situation.
