Substantiate allegations with evidence: Priyank Kharge challenges Kumaraswamy

Home Minister Priyank Kharge addressing a media conference in Kalaburagi on Sunday. | Photo Credit: ARUN KULKARNI

Home Minister Priyank Kharge challenged Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy to substantiate his allegations in the ongoing “sting operation” controversy, urging him to submit evidence to the investigating agencies rather than making unverified claims in public.

Speaking to presspersons in Kalaburagi city on Saturday, Mr. Kharge said the investigation should be allowed to proceed without prejudging its outcome. If Mr. Kumaraswamy had specific evidence, he should submit it to the Director-General of Police or approach the court, he said.

Responding to allegations of Congress Ministers’ involvement in the operation, Mr. Kharge said the investigation would establish the facts. Alluding to their political rivalry, he questioned whether Mr. Kumaraswamy himself could have been behind the operation. BJP leader C.T. Ravi, who had accused Congress leaders of involvement, should provide his voice sample, he said.