Belagavi, April 29 (UNI) Karnataka Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar has made startling allegations suggesting that BJP’s senior leaders were informed about sleaze videos, involving NDA candidate Prajwal Revanna, before allying with the JDS.
Hebbalkar claimed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Karnataka BJP President Vijayendra Yediyurappa, among others, had prior knowledge of the videos but proceeded with the alliance regardless.
In a press conference here on Monday, Hebbalkar highlighted, “It’s noteworthy that Amit Shah and Vijayendra were already aware of the existence of such CDs and videos, as evidenced by BJP leader Devarajegowda’s communication with Vijayendra. During Amit Shah’s visit to Mysuru, BJP leaders Preetham Gowda and AT Ramaswamy strongly advised against allying with JDS.”
She also criticised BJP’s silence on obscene videos, raising doubts about the party’s dedication to women’s safety and ethical conduct in politics, and demanded clarity from the BJP regarding their stance on the issue.
“Our Chief Minister’s decision to establish an SIT is a step forward, but the BJP’s stance remains uncertain. Where is the voice of NCW chief Rekha Sharma? Why is JP Nadda silent? Why is Shobha Karandlaje silent too? These questions linger as we await clarity on the future of the BJP-JDS alliance,” Hebbalkar stated.
Prajwal faces a sexual harassment case filed against him on Sunday following complaints by his former house help. The FIR accused him and his father HD Revanna of sexual harassment, intimidation, and outraging the dignity of a woman.
The complainant alleges both Revanna and Prajwal sexually assaulted her. She further claimed Prajwal behaved inappropriately towards her and her daughter, including during video calls.
Responding to the controversy, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged obscene video case in Hassan district.
In a bid to distance itself, the BJP has stated no association with Prajwal or the videos. BJP leader CT Ravi stated, “I endorse the stand of HD Kumaraswamy in this matter.” Kumaraswamy earlier today said action will be taken by the JDS if Prajwal is proven guilty.
The unfolding scandal holds significant political ramifications, particularly as the BJP and JDS pilot their alliance amidst ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the state. Prajwal’s re-election bid in Hassan now faces competition from the Congress party’s Shreyas Patel.
As developments unfold, the impact of this controversy on Karnataka’s political landscape remains uncertain.
