18 November,2023 12:50 PM IST | Bengaluru | mid-day online correspondent
CM Siddaramaiah/ File Photo
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of Karnataka maintained his position in support of his son Yathindra Siddaramaiah, rejecting claims of a "cash for posting" scheme following the release of a viral film that sparked a contentious political debate.
JD (S) leader Kumaraswamy accused Yathindra Siddaramaiah of being involved in a "cash for posting scam" after seeing a video of him discussing a "list" with his father. In response, Siddaramaiah refuted these allegations, stating that the discussion was about corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds rather than illegal money transfers, as Kumaraswamy had suggested.
Siddaramaiah attacked Kumaraswamy's claims in a social media rejoinder, calling them unfounded conspiracy theories. He explained that the topic of discussion was the development of schools through the use of CSR funding, with reference to a person named Vivekananda who had approved a list of schools for development.
Referencing past incidents when names were inadvertently connected to disputes, Siddaramaiah underlined the irresponsibility of making baseless accusations and the possibility that more than one person might have the same name. He argued against engaging in conspiracy-driven narratives and in favour of a factual approach.
"Looks like former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy is desperate for attention. Medically it is termed as Histrionic Personality Disorder. Better to address it soon than never. Kumaraswamy has become an expert in coming up with conspiracy theories. With just the name of 'Vivekananda', he is trying to fabricate stories. We had issued a clarification that the phone call was about the development of schools using CSR funds and had released the document also. The document which was released was signed off by Mysuru Taluk BEO Vivekananda," he wrote.
He further stated, "The conversation over the phone was about this Vivekananda who had signed off the list of schools for development. Many people can have similar names. Former BJP MLA MP Kumaraswamy was sentenced in a cheque bounce case. Did we say it was HD Kumaraswamy? When Kumaraswamy ridiculed himself by calling 'Yellidyappa Nikhil', did everyone with the name Nikhil answered Kumaraswamy? As a responsible political leader, one should present facts and not conspiracy theories. This series of failed, desperate attempts by Kumaraswamy shows he is irresponsible."
"Sadly, his cry for attention is continuing to expose him further. Instead of wasting time by threading fake narratives, he should talk to his alliance partners and ensure justice for Karnataka on various issues. There is still a chance for Kumaraswamy to accept his mistake and publicly apologise for his failed attempt. Instead of building up on lies, he should end it with an apology," he further wrote slamming the former ally.
As Kumaraswamy persisted in his accusations and described the video as proof of a continuing "cash for posting" scandal within the state's political system, the debate grew more intense. The BJP and JD(S) have now called for an impartial inquiry into these claims.
Reiterating his position, Siddaramaiah refuted Kumaraswamy's charges, claiming that the talks were mostly about issues related to the Varuna constituency and refuting any allegations of improper conduct during the talks.
