Bengaluru: In the aftermath of the suicide of Santosh Patil, a contractor who alleged harassment by BJP Minister Eshwarappa and blamed him for his death in the suicide note, the state Contractor`s Association on Wednesday accused the BJP of indulging in rowdyism and threatened to halt all government-contracted work for one month starting May 25.
"We will stop our work for a month in protest”, association President Kempanna announced.
Kempanna also added that the current BJP government in the state is the most corrupt government the state has ever had in power. He said even though they had evidence of corruption against the ministers in the state, they were unable to produce it fearing backlash from the BJP leaders.
He also said that they would produce all the evidence if an independent probe is carried out by a retired Supreme Court Judge in the death of Santosh Patil.
He also alleged that the CM’s office was also involved in corruption and despite them filing a complaint to CM Bommai, no action was initiated.
"For every work, we need to give 5 percent commission during the tender process. Corruption is rampant in the CM`s office. It is much more in the Health and Irrigation departments. If grievances of contractors are not addressed within 15 days, we will be forced to protest, the works will be stopped condemning the negligence of the government for a month from May 25," he warned.
"We are not blackmailing. Our allegations are true. Health Minister K. Sudhakar is the most corrupt and he is getting a 5 percent cut in every tender. The ministers decide the allotment of tender much before the tender process. For example, Rs 10,000 crore development works have been taken up in R R Nagar constituency of Bengaluru but the work is substandard," he maintained.
“Rural Development, PWD, BBMP, and Irrigation Ministers have their own agents. Even the CM`s office is not an exception. There are audio records on commission given to them. Minister Sudhakar`s family members are carrying out 60 percent work. His wife gives cheques for work. Son of a Chitradurga MLA has quit the medical profession to become a contractor,” Kempanna alleged.
Karnataka Contractors Association decides to stop all Government work for a month from May 25th. Say they are receiving threats. President Kempanna says Water Resources, PWD and Health are the most corrupt departments.
— DP SATISH (@dp_satish) April 13, 2022
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Bahrain: Dr. Arathi Krishna, Vice President of the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Forum, Government of Karnataka, participated as the Guest of Honour at the prestigious Global Women’s Economic Forum and Exhibition held on January 13, 2025 in Bahrain.
The international event, known for its pivotal role in empowering women entrepreneurs and professionals, provided a unique platform for showcasing business innovations and fostering leadership among women.
During the event, Dr. Krishna emphasized the significance of women’s contributions to entrepreneurship and technological advancements. She noted that the forum's dynamic workshops, panel discussions, and expert speeches offered specialized insights into innovative practices, financial management, and the adoption of new technologies. These knowledge-sharing opportunities are designed to support emerging women entrepreneurs, enabling them to thrive in a competitive global marketplace.
Highlighting the transformative power of such initiatives, Dr. Krishna remarked on the growing achievements of women entrepreneurs in traditionally male-dominated sectors. She acknowledged that the event not only celebrated success stories from across the globe but also inspired young women to pursue entrepreneurship and leadership roles. The participation of women-led businesses from diverse nations underscored the universal nature of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation.
Dr. Krishna also engaged in thoughtful discussions with successful women leaders and interacted with representatives of various Kannada associations in Bahrain. She reiterated her appeal to the global NRI Kannada community to strive for excellence and greater accomplishments in their respective fields.