Mon Dec 30 19:21:19 UTC 2024: **Karnataka Minister Denies Involvement in Contractor’s Suicide, Challenges BJP to Provide Evidence**

Bengaluru, [Date] – Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has vehemently denied allegations linking him to the suicide of contractor Sachin Panchal, dismissing the BJP’s claims as a “hit-and-run political tactic.” Kharge, son of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, stated that he is awaiting the forensic report on an eight-page suicide note left by Panchal.

While the note alleges threats from Raju Kapanur, a man the BJP claims is close to Kharge, the Minister highlighted discrepancies, particularly the eighth page containing a conspiracy theory about the murder of an MLA, which he described as “delusional.” He categorically denied knowing Panchal and while acknowledging that the note names individuals connected to his party, he insisted that the Congress has nothing to hide and has called for a fair investigation.

Kharge questioned the BJP’s sudden enthusiasm for a CBI investigation, noting that under previous Congress governments, CBI investigations often corroborated state police findings. He challenged the BJP to produce evidence against him or the government, asserting that unlike a previous contractor suicide under BJP rule, which implicated ministers, Panchal’s note makes no mention of him. The note itself alleges that Kapanur demanded a bribe of ₹1 crore, receiving ₹15 lakh, and accuses Congress leaders of plotting the murder of several individuals, including BJP leaders.

Kharge attributed the BJP’s actions to internal factionalism and an attempt to deflect attention from their shortcomings. He reiterated his demand for a transparent investigation into Panchal’s death.

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