Bengaluru, February 4: Legislators from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal-Secular (JDS) spent the night in the Karnataka Assembly protesting against Excise Minister R.B. Thimmappa over an alleged liquor scam. The demonstration continued into the morning.
BJP Karnataka President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, along with Opposition Leader R. Ashok and several other legislators, were seen taking a morning walk within the assembly premises.
Later, the legislators gathered to discuss their next steps while enjoying tea. Shortly after, the protest resumed, with BJP and JDS members sitting on the steps of the assembly entrance, chanting slogans demanding the resignation of the Excise Minister. They sang songs and shouted “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”
BJP MLA Channabasappa even performed a devotional song, joined by Vijayendra, Ashok, and other opposition leaders like Arvind Bellad.
The legislators are demanding the resignation of Excise Minister R.B. Thimmappa in connection with the alleged liquor scam. Opposition Leader R. Ashok claimed that, for the first time in Karnataka’s history, the liquor association has accused the Excise Department of a ₹6,000 crore scam.
He further alleged that the Excise Minister was collecting ₹250 to ₹300 crore monthly. According to him, there were reports of ₹2 crore being demanded for each Deputy Commissioner post and ₹10 lakh for postings at the constable level. Ashok also referenced an audio recording in which a Deputy Commissioner allegedly stated that ministers required a “cut.” A complaint against the minister has been filed with the Lokayukta.
Ashok stated, “Despite all this, the minister is demanding evidence, and the entire government, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who also holds the finance portfolio, is supporting him. This indicates that a substantial amount of money is reaching the Congress high command, with a massive collection of ₹6,000 crore for the elections. We are protesting, and we will continue until Excise Minister Thimmappa resigns.”
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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