Activist’s Allegation Sparks Controversy in Karnataka Assembly

Tensions flared in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on October 30, 2023, following serious allegations made by activist Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi. Thimarodi called for a special investigation team (SIT) to probe alleged mass murders in Dharmasthala and claimed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was responsible for “28 murders.” This statement incited heated exchanges among assembly members, particularly between the ruling party and opposition.

In response to Thimarodi’s claims, Home Minister G Parameshwara directed police to initiate a suo motu case against him. According to reports, Parameshwara urged police officials to act swiftly, questioning, “Should we allow someone to go when he has spoken against the CM?” Officers indicated that Thimarodi’s video, in which he made the allegations, dated back to May 2023. They are currently verifying its authenticity, with plans to arrest Thimarodi if the charges are substantiated.

The opposition, particularly members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), reacted strongly to Thimarodi’s statements. Opposition leader R Ashoka raised concerns in the assembly, asking, “Does it mean the CM is a murderer? What action will you take against the one who made the allegation?” His comments echoed the sentiments of fellow BJP member S Suresh Kumar, who questioned the government’s tolerance of such bold accusations.

During the heated debate, BJP member V Sunil Kumar mocked Parameshwara’s recent claim of being the “No.1 home minister” in the country, suggesting that effective action should be taken against Thimarodi. Parameshwara defended his position by stating that Thimarodi has several cases against him, emphasizing that “such a person cannot be left free in society.”

The discussion escalated further when Ashoka highlighted the severity of Thimarodi’s allegations, asking if a climate of fear characterized the state. Assembly Speaker UT Khader urged Ashoka to file a formal petition regarding the allegations, while Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar interjected, clarifying that Thimarodi had also made statements against BJP members and asserting that immediate action would be taken as directed by the Chief Minister.

As the assembly session continued, the political landscape in Karnataka became increasingly charged, with both sides standing firm in their positions. The allegations made by Thimarodi, if proven, could have significant implications for the state’s political climate, and the actions taken by law enforcement will be closely monitored in the coming days.