BJP Alleges Land Grab by Kharge Family Through Trust in Karnataka
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday accused Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and his son, Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge, of using political influence to acquire land through a trust in the state. Addressing a press conference, BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari claimed that the allotment of land to the trust was facilitated due to the political clout of the Kharge family. The allegations come amid heightened political tensions in Karnataka ahead of local elections.
Details of the Alleged Land Grab
According to Bhandari, a trust linked to the Kharge family was allotted prime land in Karnataka at a price far below market value. He provided documents purportedly showing that the trust received the land through a government order bypassing standard auction procedures. Bhandari claimed that the trust, which allegedly has Mallikarjun Kharge and his son as beneficiaries, used their positions to secure the deal. The BJP spokesperson alleged that the land was meant for public purposes but was diverted for private benefit. He demanded a thorough investigation by central agencies.
Kharge Family Denies Allegations
The Congress party and the Kharge family have denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. Mallikarjun Kharge said in a statement that the trust had acquired the land legally and transparently, and all procedures were followed. He accused the BJP of making false claims to divert attention from governance failures. Priyank Kharge, who is the Karnataka minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, also rejected the allegations, stating that the trust is involved in charitable activities and the land was obtained for a school and hospital. He challenged the BJP to provide concrete evidence.
Political Context and Impact
The BJP has been targeting the Congress leadership in Karnataka, where the party is in power. The allegations are seen as an attempt to corner the Kharge family, which wields significant influence in the state. Political analysts note that the issue could resonate with voters, especially in rural areas where land rights are sensitive. The Congress has accused the BJP of using central agencies to harass opposition leaders. Meanwhile, the state government has said it will examine the documents provided by the BJP and take appropriate action if any irregularities are found.
