Bengaluru, 02 Nov (H.S.): Political tension in Karnataka escalated on Monday as Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge engaged in a sharp verbal clash over an alleged sting operation targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Launching a fresh offensive against the Union Minister, Priyank Kharge targeted Kumaraswamy's political career, alleging that he rose to the Chief Minister's post primarily due to caste dynamics. Kharge warned Kumaraswamy against making hit-and-run allegations and demanded that he submit any solid evidence he holds regarding the case to investigators.

If you have proof, present it to the authorities instead of dropping vague accusations. The police are thoroughly investigating every angle of the case. Why is the Union Minister in such a hurry? Kharge asked. He dismissed Kumaraswamy's claims as baseless, pointing out that the Modi government itself had awarded medals to the Karnataka police force for their work, questioning the Union Minister's standing to criticize them.

Addressing the arrest of suspect Ritesh Pandey in connection with the sting operation, Kharge demanded clarity on the nature of Pandey's relationship with Kumaraswamy. He denied reports claiming Pandey was apprehended at Kumaraswamy's residence but questioned who instructed the suspect to purchase the mobile phone used in the operation.

Kharge defended the ongoing police probe, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies have operated strictly within legal boundaries without leaking sensitive information. He asserted that authorities would not hesitate to question anyone relevant to the probe, regardless of their position. Did we ever say we would target HDK specifically? Does his statement carry any common sense or logic? Is he the only minister in the Union Cabinet? Kharge remarked, adding that the truth will emerge once the investigation concludes.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman