Mon Dec 30 18:55:44 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka Contractor’s Suicide Sparks Political Firestorm

**Bengaluru, Karnataka –** The suicide of a civil contractor in Bidar district on December 26th has ignited a major political row in Karnataka, pitting the ruling Congress party against the opposition BJP. The BJP alleges that the contractor’s suicide note implicates Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge and demands his resignation and a CBI investigation.

BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra claims the suicide note mentions a conspiracy involving Kharge’s aide, Raju Kapanur, and alleges death threats related to a ₹1 crore demand. Vijayendra further alleges the note implicated a plot to eliminate BJP leaders and a pontiff. The BJP is demanding ₹1 crore compensation for the contractor’s family, a government job for a family member, and threatens to besiege Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence if demands aren’t met by January 3rd.

Minister Priyank Kharge denies any involvement, stating his name wasn’t mentioned in the suicide note and calling for a fair inquiry. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar dismissed the BJP’s calls for his resignation and a CBI probe, asserting the state police’s competence.

However, under mounting pressure, the Karnataka government has transferred the case to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed this decision, emphasizing a commitment to a thorough investigation.

The controversy has deepened the political divide, with the BJP accusing the Congress of shielding Kharge and the Congress dismissing the allegations as baseless. The CID investigation’s outcome will significantly impact the political landscape of Karnataka in the coming months.

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