Priyank Kharge Defends Sting Operation Investigation Amid Kumaraswamys Accusations
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge rebuts Kumaraswamys claims on the ongoing sting operation investigation, asserting thorough police scrutiny.
Bengaluru, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : Karnataka’s Home and Information Technology Minister Priyank Kharge addressed allegations made by former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy regarding the investigation into a sting operation linked to Congress leader Siddaramaiah. During a press briefing on Monday, Kharge emphasized that the police are examining the case from all angles.
Responding to Kumaraswamy’s repeated accusations against the state government and investigative officials, Kharge questioned the urgency of the central minister’s claims while the investigation is still underway. “Why is Kumaraswamy in such a rush when the inquiry is ongoing?” he asked.
Kharge referenced the investigation involving Pratap Reddy, noting that the officials involved had received commendations from the central government for their work. He challenged Kumaraswamy to explain his allegations against these officials, particularly in light of the awards they received under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration.
The minister stated that the government is ready to respond to any new and substantial allegations. However, he criticized Kumaraswamy for making continuous statements without providing evidence. “If there are new accusations, we can clarify them. But if he keeps talking without documentation, what can I say? It seems like a hit-and-run incident,” Kharge remarked.
Kharge further criticized Kumaraswamy for seemingly having little else to discuss, pointing out that he frequently comments on Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, himself, and Siddaramaiah. “It appears he lacks substantial work. Every morning, he talks about us. Has he said anything concrete?” Kharge questioned.
He reiterated that the government had already released an official statement detailing the progress of the investigation, including information about those allegedly involved in the sting operation and those featured in the video.
“We have clarified in our official statement who conducted the sting operation and who appeared in the video. They have been questioned multiple times, and their statements have been recorded. We are investigating every aspect,” Kharge explained, adding that the information shared so far is all that can be disclosed at this stage, with further details to be released after the investigation concludes.
Kharge concluded by stating that investigators have recorded statements from all individuals visible in the video and challenged Kumaraswamy to explain how he knows the specifics of the police inquiries. “How does he know whom we’ve spoken to and how many times? I cannot speak irresponsibly,” he asserted.
