Pramesh S Jain
Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Tuesday accused political opponents of conspiring to tarnish Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s image through an alleged sting operation and rejected demands for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe,expressing confidence in the state police to investigate the matter impartially.
Speaking to reporters, Kharge described the alleged sting as a calculated attempt at character assassination.
He said an injunction had already been obtained and an official response issued, arguing that there was no need for unnecessary speculation while the matter was under investigation.
Rejecting the opposition’s demand for a CBI inquiry, Kharge said the Karnataka Police had the competence and resources to conduct a fair investigation.
“We have faith in our police.They have the competence and resources to carry out the probe.Why should the case be handed over to the CBI?” he asked,questioning the need to involve the central agency.
Taking aim at Union Minister H.D.Kumaraswamy and the JD(S), Kharge advised Kumaraswamy to exercise restraint while making public statements.
Referring to controversies during Kumaraswamy’s tenure as Chief Minister,he alluded to alleged audio leaks and sting operations, claiming that people were aware of those behind such episodes.
Kharge also questioned the Congress’s alleged role in controversies involving Prajwal Revanna.
“Did the Congress create those videos?If you fail to properly guide members of your own family,how is the Congress connected to that?”he asked.
Emphasising that the issue should be dealt with through legal procedures rather than political accusations, Kharge said the ongoing investigation should not be influenced by media debates.
“The truth will come out through the investigation. Matters under probe cannot be adjudicated through running commentary in the media,”he said.
Reiterating the Congress’s position,Kharge said the party would not be distracted by political rhetoric and maintained that the investigation would establish the facts and identify those responsible,if a conspiracy was proven.
