Karnataka CM shrugs off corruption allegations

There is dissent brewing within the BJP in Karnataka over the induction of seven new ministers in the Karnataka Cabinet. Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has said he is not afraid of corruption allegations in appointing new ministers.

Bengaluru: The much-awaited Karnataka Cabinet expansion took place on Wednesday with the induction of seven ministers. Some legislators have alleged corruption in the induction of ministers. They claimed that Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has received money from the new Ministers.

In response to their remarks, Yediyurappa warned them that those who have complaints may approach the High Command. During the Cabinet expansion, Vijayapura MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, H Vishwanath, M P Renukacharya, Thippa Reddy, Mahesh Kumathahalli raised concerns over not granting seat in BSY's Cabinet.

Dissent brew within the BJP loyalists as Ranukacharya and H Nagesh were asked to resign to leave a vacant berth. Vijayapura MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal resisted by reminding BSY about CD. The CD contained incriminating content against BSY, according to the legislator.

BSY told media he is unshaken by the allegations and none can deter me over CD. He added that legislators should refrain from actions that harm the party. They are free to complain against me, he said.

He added that the Cabinet expansion was sought as per the direction from High Command. As per the party's suggestion, we have reserved a seat and the rest have been filled.

Sources said that one of the dissenter Renukacharya has moved to Delhi. Speculations rife that he would have gone to meet the High Command. When asked about it, he said that he reached there for personal affairs. Yediyurappa also hit on that by saying that other MLAs can meet the High Command with the help of Renukacharya.