Mounting pressure on the ruling Congress in Karnataka, the BJP on Monday reiterated its demand for a CBI inquiry into the contractor’s suicide and the resignation of Minister Priyank Kharge. The party warned of a protest to lay siege to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence in Kalaburagi in January if their demands are not met.
“The Kharge family is very powerful, and the state police cannot investigate them impartially. Hence, the matter should be handed over to the CBI,” BJP state president B Y Vijayendra told reporters.
Civil Contractor’s Allegations
Sachin Panchal, a civil contractor, allegedly died by suicide on December 26 by lying before a moving train in Bidar district. In his suicide note, Panchal accused Priyank Kharge’s close aide Raju Kapanur of pressuring him to pay ₹1 crore. He also alleged that he received death threats, compelling him to take the drastic step. Kapanur has denied the allegations.
Priyank Kharge, while denying any involvement, said his name was not mentioned in the suicide note. He also called for an inquiry to uncover the truth.
BJP Intensifies Pressure
The BJP has intensified its demands, alleging that the police in Kalaburagi district are influenced by the Kharge family. Vijayendra called on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to demand Priyank Kharge’s resignation and to hand over the investigation to the CBI.
Compensation Demands
The BJP has also demanded:
- Protection for Panchal’s family.
- Compensation of ₹1 crore for the family.
- A government job for one family member.
Ultimatum and Planned Protest
Vijayendra announced that the party would wait until January 3 for the Chief Minister to order a CBI inquiry. “If our demands are not met, the BJP will stage a massive protest in Kalaburagi on January 4 and lay siege to Kharge’s house,” he added.
Conspiracy Claims
Vijayendra highlighted another serious aspect of Panchal’s suicide note, alleging a conspiracy to eliminate BJP MLA Basavaraj Mattimud, leaders Chandru Patil, Manikanth Rathod, and pontiff Siddalinga Swami. He claimed contract killers from Maharashtra were involved, which demands urgent investigation.
The BJP’s demands have set the stage for a political showdown, with the party accusing the Congress government of shielding its leaders and ignoring the gravity of the allegations.
