Minister Priyank Kharge lashes out at BJP for misusing CBI, central agencies

NEW DELHI: A political face-off has ensued between the Congress and the BJP in Karnataka after the state government on Thursday withdrew the consent for CBI to probe cases in the state. Minister Priyank Kharge challenged the BJP to provide evidence or proof if they have any of any alleged corruption in the MUDA case.

“The CM is very clear that he’s open to investigation. And we have also set up an SIT with one retired judge at the helm of affairs. The BJP is more than free to give any documents of any nature to them. And now that the Lokayukta is also in the loop, they are free to do that too. Instead of talking to the media, let them give all the documents that they have to the investigative agencies”, he said.

He also countered the BJP for demanding the CM’s resignation and case to be filed  “Lokayukta will take a call on the investigation. They are independent bodies and whether the CM has to resign or what the next step for the CM will be decided by the party. Who is BJP to tell us what to do? First, let them look inward. What are they?”

On the issue of the BJP misusing investigative agencies against opposition parties, Priyank Kharge recalled a Supreme Court statement on CBI.  “The Supreme Court has told that CBI has become a caged parrot. So we are ensuring that the parrot remains caged there only. Whatever is legal, if there are inter-state offences that have happened, high-value bank fraud that has happened, we will let them ask permission if it deems fit, and we will give it. What is wrong with that”? he said.

He added, “Even if they have a shred of evidence, let them give it to Lokayukta. What is this time and again coming out and protesting in front of the Gandhi statue? First, they don’t even believe in Gandhiji. Only whenever these things come to attract attention, did they go in front of Gandhi. Let them do a protest”. (ANI)