Bengaluru, Karnataka — Political tensions escalated in the Karnataka Assembly as BJP MLAs staged a protest demanding the resignation of Excise Minister RB Timmapur over alleged corruption in the excise department. The protest was led by BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra, who described the issue as a “major scam” that has deeply shaken public trust in the state government.
Addressing the media, Vijayendra alleged that serious irregularities have taken place within the excise department and claimed that an audio recording has surfaced, pointing towards alleged collusion among senior officials. “It is a major scam that has occurred in Karnataka,” he said, adding that the audio recording reportedly features a conversation involving a district-level officer, the excise commissioner, and an agent.
According to Vijayendra, the emergence of this audio clip raises grave concerns about corruption at the highest levels of the department. He stressed that such allegations cannot be ignored and demanded a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the matter. “A proper investigation must be conducted. This is our demand,” he asserted.
The BJP leader further stated that moral responsibility lies with the Excise Minister, and therefore, RB Timmapur must step down to ensure a fair probe. “The excise minister has to resign,” Vijayendra said, reiterating that accountability is essential in a democratic system.
He also pointed out that the issue was raised on the floor of the House by both the BJP and its ally, the Janata Dal (Secular). “This is why the BJP and the JDS raised this issue in the Assembly, and we are demanding the resignation of the excise minister,” he added.
The protest reflects the growing confrontation between the ruling Congress government and the opposition in Karnataka, with corruption allegations becoming a central political flashpoint. BJP leaders argue that the government’s credibility is at stake and accuse it of shielding those involved in wrongdoing.
Meanwhile, the controversy has sparked wider public debate, with calls for transparency and accountability gaining momentum. As the political standoff continues, the demand for an independent investigation is expected to intensify, putting further pressure on the state government to respond decisively to the allegations.
