Karnataka: Sunil Kumar targets Congress over EVMs, guarantees

At a press conference, Kumar announced a statewide campaign titled 'Prajaprabhutva Ulisi, Aarajakathe Alisi' (Save Democracy, Eradicate Anarchy), scheduled to run from November 9 to 30. The initiative aims to connect with young people through programmes at 500 locations across Karnataka.

Bengaluru: BJP MLA V. Sunil Kumar on Monday, November 2, accused the Congress of adopting double standards on electoral reforms by questioning Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

He maintained that the Election Commission was operating within the law and alleged that the Congress was exceeding its constitutional limits.

At a press conference, Kumar announced a statewide campaign titled ‘Prajaprabhutva Ulisi, Aarajakathe Alisi’ (Save Democracy, Eradicate Anarchy), scheduled to run from November 9 to 30. The initiative aims to connect with young people through programmes at 500 locations across Karnataka.

The campaign will primarily target those below 30 years of age, with the BJP planning interactions with students from approximately 100 colleges. Party MP Tejasvi Surya will inaugurate the programme in Hubballi, while BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra will lead an event in Bengaluru.

On the alleged sting operation involving former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Kumar demanded a fair and transparent investigation. He said the democratic process must reflect the people’s verdict and should not be influenced by unethical methods.

Responding to a question about reports that the sting video was uploaded from Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy’s residence in Delhi, Kumar said the Union Minister should clarify the issue. He also questioned the pace of the investigation and insisted that the authorities make the progress and findings public.

The BJP legislator also criticised the state government over the implementation of drought relief measures. He alleged that conditions imposed by the government were preventing farmers in distress from accessing the promised compensation of ₹2,500.

Kumar raised concerns over delays in the payment of milk subsidies, which he said had been pending since June. He warned that any further increase in milk prices would place an additional financial burden on consumers.

He also accused the Congress government of weakening its five guarantee schemes by introducing eligibility restrictions and attempting to modify the benefits promised to people. The government, he alleged, was moving away from its electoral commitments.

The BJP’s proposed youth campaign will seek to engage young voters on issues concerning democracy and governance, while Kumar’s remarks reflected the party’s criticism of the Congress government on electoral reforms, farmers’ relief, milk subsidies and the implementation of its guarantee schemes.