YADGIR
BJP leaders in Yadgir have opposed the reinstatement of B. Nagendra as a minister while the investigation into alleged financial irregularities in the Maharshi Valmiki Development Corporation is continuing. District BJP president Basavarajappa Gowda Vibhutihalli said the party would strongly protest the decision and demanded that Nagendra resign.
Speaking at a press conference at Patrika Bhavan, Vibhutihalli said Nagendra had earlier resigned from the cabinet following allegations involving around Rs. 186-187 crore in the corporation. He questioned the decision to appoint him again while investigators are still examining the case.
The BJP leader alleged that money meant for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes was misused and described Nagendra’s return to the cabinet as a betrayal of the community. He referred to Enforcement Directorate investigation documents, which, according to him, mention transfers of corporation funds to different bank accounts and the opening of accounts in Telangana.
Vibhutihalli also demanded that the government seriously examine the death by suicide of corporation officer Chandrashekhar, which has been linked to the controversy. He questioned whether Nagendra had received any clean chit and asked if political pressure had influenced the decision to restore him to the cabinet.
He urged Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to reconsider the appointment and warned that the BJP would intensify its campaign if Nagendra did not resign. The party plans to stage protests inside and outside the legislature in Bengaluru and hold demonstrations before District Collector offices in various districts. BJP leaders said they would also submit petitions seeking action and continue raising the issue until their demands are addressed.