Senior BJP and JD(S) leaders convened to address corruption in Karnataka and decided to embark on a seven-day ‘padyatra’ starting August 3. BJP Karnataka President BY Vijayendra announced that former Chief Ministers BS Yediyurappa and HD Kumaraswamy will join the march.
Speaking to ANI post-meeting, Vijayendra stated, “Senior leaders from both BJP and JD(S) discussed the rampant corruption under Siddaramaiah’s leadership in Karnataka. The ST Development Corporation scam has seen ₹187 crores, intended for the welfare of the scheduled tribe community, misappropriated by the Congress government, along with numerous other scams like the MUDA scam.” He confirmed the padyatra will begin on August 3 and conclude on August 10, with national BJP leaders joining on the final day.
Regarding potential government obstruction of the yatra, Vijayendra asserted, “We will not be deterred. If the government tries to stop our ‘padyatra,’ we will continue. They’ve obstructed us before, but we are resolute this time.”
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman questioned why Siddaramaiah had not taken action against bank officials involved in the Maharishi Valmiki Corporation Board scam. At a post-budget press conference in Bengaluru, she criticised Siddaramaiah, stating, “Action has already been initiated against the complicit bank officials, and further lawful measures will follow. However, a minister had to resign due to his oversight, yet there is a denial and blame-shifting.”
Sitharaman highlighted the misuse of funds meant for the Valmiki community, questioning the Congress’s commitment to justice. “Is this ‘Nyay’ for the SCs and STs?” she asked.
On July 19, the Karnataka Legislative Assembly witnessed turmoil over alleged financial irregularities in a state-run corporation, with BJP and JD(S) members staging a protest against the government and demanding Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s resignation.
(With inputs from ANI)