BJP's Boozy Bash: Free Liquor At Bengaluru Post-Poll Event Sparks Controversy

A public meeting organised by the BJP to celebrate the victory of former minister K Sudhakar as Chikballapur MP has sparked controversy after visuals emerged showing liquor being distributed to attendees. The event, held in Nelamangala on Sunday, was attended by Sudhakar, Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka, and JD(S) leaders.

Videos from the event show liquor packets and bottles being handed out, with people forming long queues to collect their drinks in the presence of police personnel.

Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Congress president D K Shivakumar criticised the BJP for the incident.

"Liquor was distributed at a public event in Nelamangala. Registering a case is another matter, but BJP National President J P Nadda must answer for this. How was the MP allowed to distribute liquor?" Shivakumar said.

"More than local leaders, it is important for the BJP's national leaders to tell citizens how their party is upholding culture by distributing liquor at public meetings," Shivakumar added.

In a letter to the local police on July 3, BJP Nelamangala president Jagadish Chaudhary had mentioned that the event would include "food and liquor" arrangements.

In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, Sudhakar defeated Congress' Raksha Ramaiah by 1.63 lakh votes.