Mandya, 23 June

Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka has launched a scathing attack on the Congress-led Karnataka government, accusing it of turning the Housing Board into a "Collection Board." Speaking in Mandya, he alleged that the government had prioritised profit over public service. “‘Pay money, get a house’ seems to be the new slogan. Blood-sucking leeches have infiltrated the Housing Department,” Ashoka said.

He claimed corruption in the department has worsened following the Excise and Valmiki Corporation scams and referred to a viral audio clip where Congress MLA BR Patil admitted to discussing bribes, demanding a thorough investigation.

Ashoka criticised the CM’s recent resolution meeting in Ballari, calling it a “resolution to destroy the poor.” He alleged houses meant for Tamil beedi workers in Mandya were being illegally allotted to minorities under political pressure.

Further, he claimed a 60% commission was being charged in housing schemes, with 15% reservation for Muslims and Tipu Sultan’s descendants. “This is no longer a government of the people. It’s a 60% commission regime,” he said, demanding a CBI or judicial probe.

He also attacked the government over the Kaveri Aarti project at KRS, alleging that ₹100 crore was being siphoned off under the guise of religious activity.

BJP state president BY Vijayendra backed the allegations, stating that Congress MLAs like Patil and Kage had themselves exposed the government's failures. “The wall of patience is withering,” Vijayendra warned, urging Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot to intervene, citing a total collapse of governance and rising despair even among ruling party MLAs.