H D Kumaraswamy Claims Six to Seven Karnataka Ministers Will Resign If Documents Are Released

H D Kumaraswamy, a JDS leader and Union Minister, has criticised the Karnataka government led by Siddaramaiah over various issues, including corruption. He stated that if he disclosed certain documents, six to seven state ministers might have to resign. Kumaraswamy alleged that the Congress administration was attempting to implicate him in cases after he began highlighting alleged irregularities publicly.

Kumaraswamy questioned the integrity of the current government, pointing out that Siddaramaiah had previously accused the BJP of being a "40 per cent commission" government. He claimed that now, even members of Siddaramaiah's party suggest that the current administration exceeds this percentage. "Mr Siddaramaiah, did people give you power for this?" Kumaraswamy asked.

Allegations Against Government

Addressing reporters, Kumaraswamy asserted his readiness to reveal documents that could lead to ministerial resignations. He emphasised his willingness to face any consequences without fear. He also targeted the Chief Minister regarding the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment case, questioning why certain cabinet decisions were made hastily if Siddaramaiah had no involvement in the alleged scam.

Kumaraswamy accused the government of creating a new legal system in Karnataka where arrests occur based on complaints. He highlighted that despite court directions, an FIR was not registered against Siddaramaiah within 48 hours. The Lokayukta police have since filed an FIR against Siddaramaiah and others in connection with the MUDA site allotment case following a Special Court's order.

Political Manipulation Claims

The Union Minister accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, and Home Minister G Parameshwara of using police and officials for political purposes. He questioned how many officials were promised key positions like Bengaluru Commissioner or CID chief and what tasks they were assigned for these promises. Kumaraswamy claimed to have information about meetings held at official and ministerial levels since he began criticising the government.

Kumaraswamy appeared before Lokayukta police regarding a land denotification case. He clarified that he voluntarily attended and accused some media outlets of spreading false information about receiving a notice from Lokayukta to divert attention from the Chief Minister's case.

Denotification Case Controversy

Regarding the Gangenahalli denotification case, Kumaraswamy dismissed it as a diversion tactic by the government. He stated that although he signed a file related to it, he did not order denotification. Instead, he instructed legal scrutiny before taking action against officials. He expressed confidence in facing any investigation without concern.

Kumaraswamy criticised Siddaramaiah for alleging a conspiracy between BJP and JDS to destabilise his government. He lamented that developmental issues are not being discussed in Karnataka and instead, police department matters and scams dominate public discourse.

Corruption Accusations

Kumaraswamy accused M Chandrashekhar, ADGP SIT of Lokayukta, of corruption and demanded his suspension. He cited allegations from an inspector under Chandrashekhar who claimed Rs 20 crore was demanded and mentioned another complaint filed with the former Home Secretary. Kumaraswamy plans to submit documents to the Union Home Secretary regarding Chandrashekhar's conduct.

Sources indicate Chandrashekhar leads a Lokayukta SIT investigating a case where Kumaraswamy is accused of granting illegal mining permissions to a questionable company. Kumaraswamy intends to file a complaint against Chandrashekhar soon.

Kumaraswamy's allegations highlight ongoing tensions between political parties in Karnataka. The accusations raise questions about governance and transparency within the state administration. The unfolding events may impact political dynamics as investigations continue into these serious claims.