BENGALURU: Amid increasing scrutiny on Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Congress leaders are intensifying their claims that the BJP-led central government is leveraging investigative agencies to disrupt the state’s Congress-led administration. Congress MLA Naseer Ahmed openly criticized these tactics, accusing the BJP of using central agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to apply undue pressure on Siddaramaiah’s government and destabilize its activities.
Congress leaders Jairam Ramesh and Abhishek Manu Singhvi voiced concerns over what they consider systematic targeting of opposition figures, accusing the ED of being a “political tool” of the BJP. They argue that the agency’s investigations predominantly target opposition leaders, with Singhvi stating that almost 95% of ED’s political cases focus on the opposition. This, he claims, is an attempt by the BJP to intimidate opponents as a prelude to the upcoming elections in Karnataka.
Despite the pressure, Siddaramaiah remains resolute. Emphasizing his commitment to public service, he stated that there was no reason for him to resign over “baseless allegations.” Deputy CM DK Shivakumar also confirmed Congress’s backing, attributing the situation to political motives from the BJP, which he claims aims to destabilize their administration by sowing discord through these investigations.
As the situation develops, Siddaramaiah could face further legal proceedings, with potential challenges emerging within his party as well. The central government’s actions in this case are drawing widespread attention and criticism, especially among Congress supporters, and have intensified the political rivalry leading up to the Karnataka assembly elections.
