Thu Sep 26 00:55:16 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka CM Challenges Modi to Debate on Corruption Amidst Election Campaign

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued a direct challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a debate on corruption, reacting to the latter’s comments during an election rally in Haryana.

Siddaramaiah, in a series of tweets, took aim at Modi, accusing him of hypocrisy by speaking about corruption while facing allegations himself. He cited the recent statement by BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, who alleged that the Chief Minister’s post in the BJP government was “auctioned off” for ₹2,500 crore.

The Chief Minister also questioned Modi’s conscience, pointing to the inclusion of H.D. Kumaraswamy, facing charges in a ₹100-crore illegal mining scam, in his cabinet. He further alleged that the BJP engages in “washing machine politics,” where corrupt leaders are “cleaned” and inducted into the party.

Siddaramaiah challenged Modi to name a single leader in the Karnataka BJP who is not stained by corruption. He concluded his remarks by calling out the “puppets” who have made accusations against him, stating that it’s time to unmask the “mastermind” behind them.

This exchange comes amidst the ongoing election campaign in Karnataka, with both the BJP and Congress vying for power in the state.

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