JD(S) leader lauds Congress MLAs for slamming own party over corruption claims
Janata Dal (S) MLA and floor leader in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly CB Suresh Babu has written letters of appreciation to three Congress MLAs — BR Patil, Raju Kage, and Belur Gopalkrishna — commending them for publicly criticising their own government over corruption in the Housing Department.In his letter to Congress MLA BR Patil, who is also the Vice Chairman of the State Planning Commission, Suresh Babu lauded the MLA for raising his voice in the Karnataka Assembly against the Congress-led government, despite being part of the ruling party. Describing the act as a 'very significant stance', Babu said it reflected democratic values and the responsibilities of elected representatives.advertisementOn June 20, an audio clip allegedly featuring Congress MLA BR Patil surfaced, in which he accuses officials of the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation of large-scale corruption, including bribery in house allotments.
Patil, also Deputy Chairman of the State Planning Commission, claimed his recommendations were ignored in favour of those who paid bribes. The clip, reportedly a conversation with Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan's aide Sarfaraz Khan, triggered political backlash. The letter further read, 'All of us who are elected under the democratic system are committed to fulfilling our duties for the development, progress, and overall upliftment of the people. Today, on behalf of your constituency's citizens, you have raised your voice against your own government regarding corruption in the Housing Department, even as a member of the ruling party. This is a very significant stance and is in alignment with the spirit of democracy.' advertisementSuresh Babu further added that all MLAs from the Janata Dal (Secular) 'morally support' Patil's 'pro-people fight' and said his actions 'strengthen the ideals of the Constitution and enhance its dignity'.The JD(S) leader addressed similar letters to Raju Kage and Belur Gopalkrishna, who had also spoken out on the issue. On June 23, Congress MLA Raju Kage threatened to resign over delays in implementing a Rs 25 crore development grant sanctioned two years ago for his Kagwad constituency. Kage expressed frustration over the lack of work orders and supported fellow MLA BR Patil, who alleged corruption in housing allotments. On the same day, MLC Belur Gopalkrishna demanded the resignation of Housing Minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan following corruption allegations levelled by Congress MLA BR Patil. Speaking to the media, Gopalkrishna said a fair investigation was only possible if the Minister stepped down. 'A senior MLA has made serious accusations. The concerned Minister should resign and face a probe,' he said.The call followed the leak of an audio clip in which Patil alleged bribes were taken for house allotments under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation, and that his recommendations were ignored in favour of those who paid money.The letters have drawn attention in political circles, highlighting growing tensions within the Congress over allegations of corruption in key departments and the rare instance of ruling party legislators being acknowledged by Opposition members for dissent.- Ends
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