The BJP accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of running a Rs 2,500 crore excise bribery racket to fund elections, demanding the resignation of Excise Minister RB Thimmapur. Leader of Opposition R Ashok alleged that the Excise Department had become a centre of corruption, where licences were “auctioned” through bribes instead of being issued through due process. Holding Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responsible, Ashok claimed the illegal collections were diverted for poll-related expenses. He cited recent Lokayukta arrests of excise officials and complaints by wine merchants as proof of deep-rooted corruption, calling for a comprehensive investigation into the department.
BJP Exposes Rs 2,500 Cr Karnataka Excise Fraud Funding Elections
