Bengaluru
A serious allegation by Congress MLA B.R. Patil regarding large-scale corruption in the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme has triggered political tremors in Karnataka, putting the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government on the defensive.
Speaking to the media, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka slammed the Chief Minister for his silence, alleging that Siddaramaiah is “sleepwalking” through grave corruption charges. “The Chief Minister doesn’t seem bothered about any of these allegations. He is under the spell of sleep. The Housing Department is infested with sharks,” said Ashoka.
He further warned that if Congress legislators themselves begin to speak out, the government would not last even a day. “If there is no wrongdoing, then let the government hand over the allegations made by BR Patil and HK Patil to an independent probe,” Ashoka demanded.
The allegations have come as an embarrassment to the Congress, especially since they originate from within its own ranks. BR Patil, known for his outspoken nature, had recently claimed that misappropriation of funds and irregularities were rampant in the implementation of the housing scheme meant for the poor.
The Siddaramaiah government is yet to formally respond to the demand for an inquiry. Political observers say the internal dissent, combined with the opposition’s pressure, could snowball into a major headache for the ruling party if left unaddressed.