Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar denied any wrongdoing in response to accusations of soliciting votes in exchange for essential services. Addressing reporters at his residence in Bengaluru on Tuesday, April 16, Shivakumar asserted that the allegations, made by the Bharatiya Janata Party and Janata Dal (Secular), were merely attempts to deflect public attention.
The controversy erupted after videos surfaced in which Shivakumar purportedly urged apartment residents to support his brother, DK Suresh, in the upcoming elections in return for a water supply.
Dismissing these claims as baseless, Shivakumar emphasized that such tactics were common during election seasons and urged the public to focus on substantive issues. The statement comes as Karnataka ahead of Lok Sabha polls.
On April 7, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar engaged in a series of meetings with voters residing in various residential complexes, including Prestige, Divinity Sattva Apartments, Sobha Apartments, and
Vaastu Hill View Apartments in Bengaluru’s RR Nagar. While actively campaigning for his brother, DK Suresh, the Congress candidate from Bangalore Rural, Shivakumar allegedly made statements implying a quid pro quo arrangement with residents.
He reportedly assured them that occupancy certificates for their flats would only be issued once their needs were met but conditioned this on their support for DK Suresh. He urged residents to ensure that all
members of their communities committed to backing his brother, indicating a target of 1500 votes.
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The Deputy CM said, “I know the builders here. I can assure you that we will not issue the occupancy certificate until the flats are handed over to you and meet your needs. But I have a condition all of you have to come together for DK Suresh.”
DK Shivakumar further commented on the provision of water supply to areas facing scarcity, asserting his knowledge of the distribution levels in regions such as Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Anekal, and Bengaluru South. He emphasized the critical need to assist all residents of Bengaluru, citing the alarming fact that approximately 7000 borewells have dried up.
DK Shivakumar also discussed the significance of conscious voting, emphasizing it as every citizen’s fundamental right and duty. He stressed the need for transformative change in governance, advocating for a government that prioritizes the welfare of its people.
Addressing concerns raised by residents regarding a congested road in Rajarajeshwari Nagar due to a temple, Shivakumar conveyed reluctance to relocate the temple for road widening, citing a desire to avoid
invoking Lord Ganesha’s displeasure. Instead, he proposed exploring alternative solutions, such as constructing a tunnel road to alleviate traffic congestion while preserving the sanctity of the temple.
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