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Shivakumar highlighted in the assembly that no one took responsibility for numerous scandals under BJP, including the high-profile PSI recruitment scam
Shivakumar further asserted that the intense pressure currently being applied to Excise Minister RB Thimmapur is part of a larger strategy to derail significant legislative discussions. (Image: News18)
The political atmosphere in Karnataka has reached a boiling point as Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar defended the state government against allegations of an excise scam, questioning the BJP’s own record on accountability. Speaking to reporters at the Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar posed a pointed question to the opposition, asking, “Who resigned for scams during BJP’s time?” He highlighted that no one took responsibility for numerous scandals, including the high-profile PSI recruitment scam, during the previous administration’s tenure. According to the Deputy Chief Minister, the current outcry is a calculated attempt by the BJP to trouble Dalit legislators and distract from pressing developmental issues.
Shivakumar further asserted that the intense pressure currently being applied to Excise Minister RB Thimmapur is part of a larger strategy to derail significant legislative discussions. He claimed that the BJP’s assembly drama is primarily intended to stop discussion on MGNREGA, as the opposition cannot digest the progress made under the scheme. He noted that while local panchayats previously held decision-making power, the new central scheme shifts control to the union government, a change he believes is impossible to implement even in BJP-ruled states. Shivakumar challenged the opposition to a formal debate, stating that “BJP leaders can’t defend VB-G RAM G Bill” and are instead opting for baseless accusations to maintain their political visibility.
In sharp contrast, BJP MLC and former Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan maintained that the allegations regarding the Excise Department are rooted in serious, systematic corruption. Narayan stated that the opposition has observed repeated instances of malpractice, including specific monthly corruption charges that have been brought to light. He emphasised that these claims were not made blindly on the floor of the House and accused the current government of attempting to cover up deep-seated graft. Demanding immediate accountability, Narayan insisted that the government has no justification for the current state of affairs and that the responsible parties must resign to uphold the integrity of the administration.
Standing his ground amidst the escalating calls for his departure, Excise Minister RB Thimmapur categorically dismissed the accusations as politically motivated fabrications. Reflecting on the BJP’s protests in the House, Thimmapur declared, “There is no proof; I will not resign.” He argued that the opposition is acting out of desperation and performing “unnecessarily” without a shred of evidence to support their claims.
February 04, 2026, 22:58 IST
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