Get ready for a political showdown in Bengaluru as Karnataka BJP leaders prepare to siege Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s residence on July 3. The demand? His immediate resignation amidst allegations of an illegal money transfer scandal involving a state-run corporation. State president B Y Vijayendra made this announcement on Saturday, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.
Earlier this week, BJP organized a state-wide protest against the Congress government, culminating in demonstrations in front of Deputy Commissioner offices across various districts. The intensity of the protests reflects the seriousness of the situation at hand.
The controversy surrounding the alleged illegal money transfer came to light after Chandrashekhar P, an accounts superintendent at the corporation, tragically took his own life on May 26. His death note pointed towards unauthorized transfers amounting to ₹187 crore from the corporation’s bank account, with a significant portion ending up in accounts linked to reputed IT firms and a cooperative bank in Hyderabad.
In his note, Chandrashekhar implicated the corporation’s suspended managing director, accounts officer, and a bank chief manager, alongside vague references to a “Minister” allegedly involved in issuing directives for fund transfers.
Amidst mounting pressure, Scheduled Tribes Welfare Minister B Nagendra resigned on June 6 given the gravity of the accusations against him in connection to the scam.
Vijayendra emphasized the BJP’s relentless agitation against corruption at the Valmiki Development Corporation and the need for accountability at the highest levels of governance. He expressed disappointment at the government’s lackluster response to Chandrashekhar’s allegations.
Plans are underway for a massive demonstration outside the CM’s residence on July 3, with BJP legislators determined to ensure that justice is served for the misappropriated funds meant for marginalized communities.
Vijayendra called for the resignations of the Medical Education Minister and Valmiki Corporation’s chairman, hinting at the complicity of higher authorities in the scandal. He underscored that such a massive corruption scandal could not have occurred without the CM’s knowledge.
This unprecedented scam, totaling ₹187 crore, raises serious questions about the accountability and integrity of government officials. The alleged diversion of funds for political purposes during election season has further exacerbated public outrage.
As investigations deepen, concerns about threats and safety have surfaced, highlighting the urgency of addressing the case with diligence and transparency.
The state government has initiated a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Additionally, the CBI has been roped in to investigate the embezzlement of funds from the corporation.