Bengaluru: Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday launched a scathing attack on the Congress-led Karnataka government, stating that all 224 MLAs in the state are aware of the rampant corruption and commission-related dealings within the administration.
Speaking to the media outside his residence in Bengaluru, Kumaraswamy claimed, "In order to implement any government scheme in their constituencies, MLAs are forced to make payments. This has become the norm under the current Congress government."
Taking a direct swipe at Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, he questioned, “Does this Chief Minister have any sense of dignity? He continues to shield corrupt individuals and keeps such people in his cabinet.”
The minister alleged that corruption in the state government has reached an unchecked level, affecting every legislator. “There’s no end to this commission racket. Every MLA is facing difficulties because of it. Even street-side discussions are now centered on the Housing Department's malpractice. Are these departments or dens of wrongdoing? Are these people ministers?” he asked.
Questions H.K. Patil’s silence until now
Targeting Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs H.K. Patil, Kumaraswamy raised doubts about his recent demand for an investigation into irregularities in the mining sector.
“H.K. Patil has been a minister in this government for two years. Why has he written a letter seeking investigation only now? What was he doing all this time? Back in 2015-16, it was the same Patil who had recommended a probe into mining. Has he been worshipping that report every day since then?” Kumaraswamy said sarcastically.
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Belagavi: Speaker U.T. Khader on Friday warned that members who disrupt Assembly proceedings by talking in their seats during debates will be made to sit in the House for an entire day as a disciplinary measure.
The warning came after the Question Hour, when Deputy Leader of the Opposition Arvind Bellad was permitted to initiate a discussion on the development of North Karnataka.
At this point, expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal objected, stating that he had been seeking a debate for the past three days but had not been given an opportunity.
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Responding to the objection, Speaker Khader said Bellad had already been granted permission and assured Yatnal that he would be allowed to speak at the next opportunity. He noted that even as a serious discussion was underway, several MLAs were speaking among themselves with their microphones on, disrupting the proceedings.
Expressing displeasure over the conduct of members, Khader likened the situation to football, where players receive red, yellow, or white cards for violations. Similarly, he said, the Assembly issues warning cards to members who disturb the House. If they fail to correct themselves despite repeated warnings, they would be required to remain seated in the Assembly hall for a full day as punishment, he stated.
