Bengaluru, Dec 4 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for their choice of luxurious watches, questioning their reluctance to discuss the matter when confronted during a press conference. They raised suspicions about whether the timepieces were purchased or potentially stolen items.

During the press briefing at BJP's state headquarters, Jagannath Bhavan, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, pointed out the Chief Minister's evasion when asked about his costly watches. He posed the question, “Why do you change the subject when inquiring about the watches?”

Narayanaswamy noted that both leaders are seen sporting watches from the same high-end brand, quipping, “This appears to be a company affiliated with Congress.”

He highlighted the election affidavit of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who reported owning a Rolex watch valued at Rs 9 lakh and a Hublot watch that costs Rs 23,90,246. Both leaders are also seen wearing a Cartier watch, which currently retails for around Rs 43 lakh and can reach Rs 46–47 lakh with taxes. “Where are the declarations for these items?” he asked.

Narayanaswamy speculated whether these watches were “stolen goods or purchased goods.”

He insisted, “If you've misled the state, clarify the truth. If purchased via card, disclose the transaction records.”

He further alleged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has a penchant for expensive watches, claiming he owns timepieces worth several crores and even his shoes are priced in lakhs.

“About a year and a half ago, I mentioned these watches. At that time, he owned eight. Now I have intel suggesting he has 18 to 19 watches. Where is the accountability for these?” he demanded.

Narayanaswamy also mocked by saying, “The watch may be fine, but the time it shows is incorrect. If your timing were right, leadership disputes wouldn’t arise.” He suggested that even if both leaders wear watches from the same brand, “one should relinquish authority while the other continues in power.”

He reaffirmed the call for an investigation concerning the alleged 63 percent corruption by the Upalokayukta.

During the media scrutiny surrounding their expensive watches, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar defended himself, stating, “This is my personal watch. I bought it seven years ago and paid Rs 24 lakh on my credit card. You (media) can verify my credit card records. I have also disclosed it in my election affidavit.”

When questioned about the Chief Minister, a socialist, wearing an expensive watch, he remarked, “The Chief Minister can wear what he prefers as he has the means to do so. People appreciate watches. My father had seven watches, and they should be passed down to either me or my brother.”