Bengaluru, 10 Nov (H.S.): A political confrontation has erupted between Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge and BJP MP Tejasvi Surya over alleged links between Sangh Parivar-associated networks and the murders of journalist Gauri Lankesh and rationalist thinkers M.M. Kalburgi, Narendra Dabholkar and Govind Pansare.

The controversy followed Kharge’s remarks at a Muslim Youth League state conference in Ernakulam, Kerala, where he alleged that networks associated with the Sangh Parivar were involved in the killings.

Kharge expressed confidence that investigations in Karnataka would be completed and those responsible would be sent to prison within six months.

Responding sharply, Surya questioned the progress of the investigations and accused the minister of making politically motivated statements instead of ensuring effective prosecution.

The BJP MP challenged Kharge to identify the individuals allegedly involved and produce supporting evidence within three days. He also demanded that the minister resign if he failed to substantiate his allegations.

Rejecting the criticism, Kharge launched a counterattack on social media, accusing Surya of rushing to defend the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) while ignoring questions about its organisational accountability.

Kharge claimed that investigations conducted by Special Investigation Teams and the Central Bureau of Investigation had uncovered connections between the accused and clandestine networks allegedly associated with the RSS.

He further alleged that the organisation's structure allowed it to acknowledge individuals when convenient while distancing itself from them during controversies or criminal investigations.

Questioning the RSS's transparency, Kharge demanded clarity on its membership records, organisational status, office-bearers and financial transactions.

He also questioned the collection of Gurudakshina contributions and alleged that the organisation did not publicly disclose comprehensive financial accounts.

Kharge demanded that the RSS disclose its financial records and submit itself to public scrutiny.

The exchange has intensified the political debate over accountability and the investigation of the high-profile murders.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman