BJP Accuses Congress MLAs of Political Lunket Under Guise of Study Tour
In a sharp political accusation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has alleged that 25 Congress legislators from the Siddaramaiah camp in Karnataka are embarking on an official "study tour" organized by the Animal Husbandry department, which the opposition claims is actually a junket for political lobbying. The tour is scheduled to run from February 17 to March 7, 2026, and has ignited widespread speculation and debate across the state.
Details of the Controversial Tour
The controversy centers on the planned excursion, which is officially labeled as a study tour aimed at exploring best practices in animal husbandry. However, BJP leaders have raised questions about the timing and purpose, suggesting it is a cover for political maneuvering ahead of upcoming elections. The MLAs involved are reportedly aligned with former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, adding fuel to the allegations of internal party strategies being discussed during the trip.
Ministerial Denial and Political Reactions
In response to the allegations, the concerned minister from the Animal Husbandry department has categorically denied any political motives behind the tour, asserting that it is purely an educational initiative to benefit the state's agricultural sector. Despite this, the BJP remains skeptical, with party spokespersons calling for transparency and questioning the use of public funds for what they describe as a "political junket." This has led to heated exchanges in political circles, with Congress members defending the tour as a legitimate government activity.
Broader Implications for Karnataka Politics
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP in Karnataka, with both parties leveraging the situation to score political points. Analysts note that such allegations are common in Indian politics, often used to undermine opponents and sway public opinion. As the tour dates approach, all eyes will be on how this unfolds, potentially impacting voter perceptions and party dynamics in the state.
