KALABURAGI, 14 JULY

Following the arrest of the Congress party’s block president in Kalaburagi district in Maharashtra in connection with a drug peddling case, the BJP on Monday questioned District In-charge Minister Priyank Kharge’s claims of making the district drug-free.

“Aren’t you ashamed to keep drug dealers in your circle?” the party asked.

Reacting to BJP's criticism, Priyank Kharge said the Congress has taken action against Kanni and thrown him out of the party. "The BJP would love to malign me in any possible way," he said.

Questioning BJP as to what action it has taken against its MLA Munirathna and leader Yediyurappa, who are facing various allegations, Kharge said, "You people (BJP) have people who abuse dalits, who rape woman and a POCSO accused in you party and you don't want to talk about that... at least we are taking action, if they have guts let them take action on Munirathna and Yediyurappa and then talk about me…What action has their party taken against BJP MLA Munirathna and leader Yediyurappa, both of whom are facing various allegations?" Kharge asked.

“He is an office-bearer – that we cannot deny. But calling him a ‘close aide’ has become a habit for the BJP. After the news broke, he was immediately suspended from the party. I believe he was caught peddling some cough syrups worth around Rs 27,000. But whether it is Rs 27,000 or Rs 27 crore, breaking the law is unacceptable to the party. If he has done something wrong, we have taken appropriate action,” Kharge said.