Political Intimidation Claims Prompt Demand for Special Investigation Team

Mysore, October 19 – Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje raised serious concerns about political intimidation in Karnataka, alleging that the ruling party is leveraging blackmail and sting operations to consolidate its hold on power. She highlighted reports of CDs with questionable material being circulated to threaten political adversaries.

According to Karandlaje, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and a senior Congress official were compelled to vacate their positions as a result of these alleged covert recordings. She termed the situation a "national disgrace" and called for an SIT to investigate the claims without delay.

The minister warned that the continued use of such unethical methods undermines democratic institutions and called on Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to order a rigorous inquiry and impose the severest punishment on any individuals found guilty.

The Karnataka BJP president, B.Y. Vijayendra, also appealed to the Chief Minister, insisting that the matter be examined thoroughly and that the findings be presented in a transparent, logical manner.