Tue Oct 21 21:56:26 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article based on it:

Summary:

Karnataka IT/BT and RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge (Congress) launched a counter-attack against BJP MP B.Y. Raghavendra, who accused Congress ministers of extorting officials for campaign funds in Bihar. Kharge shared an old video allegedly showing BJP leaders Ananth Kumar and B.S. Yediyurappa discussing a payment of ₹1,800 crore to the BJP high command. Kharge implied hypocrisy, citing past claims about the cost of becoming CM or a Minister within the BJP. BJP State president B.Y. Vijayendra defended his party, claiming Kharge was speaking without knowing the context and that he has become isolated within his own party for attacking the RSS.

News Article:

Karnataka Minister Accuses BJP of Hypocrisy in Funding Row

Bengaluru, October 22, 2025 – A political battle has erupted in Karnataka following accusations of extortion leveled against Congress ministers by BJP MP B.Y. Raghavendra. In response, Karnataka IT/BT and RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge fired back, accusing the BJP of hypocrisy regarding party funding.

Kharge shared a years-old video clip on social media, purportedly showing a conversation between late BJP leader Ananth Kumar and veteran B.S. Yediyurappa. According to Kharge, the video captures the two BJP figures discussing a payment of ₹1,800 crore (approximately $220 million USD) to the BJP’s high command.

“Have the BJP leaders forgotten now about this clip?” Kharge questioned in his post, suggesting the BJP is now criticizing practices they themselves engaged in. He also alluded to past claims about the alleged costs of securing positions within the BJP, such as becoming Chief Minister or a Minister.

BJP State president B.Y. Vijayendra swiftly responded, telling reporters that Kharge was speaking without understanding the true context of the video. Vijayendra also took a personal shot at Kharge, suggesting the minister’s repeated attacks on the RSS have isolated him within his own party.

The exchange highlights the deeply entrenched political rivalries in Karnataka and raises serious questions about campaign finance practices within both major political parties. The authenticity and context of the video clip will likely become central to the unfolding controversy.

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