BJP's Poonawalla Accuses Congress of 'Loot and Bribe' Governance Model

BJP's Shehzad Poonawalla unleashed a fierce critique against the Congress government in Karnataka, accusing it of rampant corruption. Poonawalla alleged that the administration practices what he calls a 'khatakhat jhoot and loot model,' suggesting that the government exploits housing schemes meant for the underprivileged through bribery.

Poonawalla demanded clarity on whether an independent judicial or CBI investigation would be convened, following revelations from a Congress MLA. The BJP leader emphasized that these allegations haven't originated from the opposition but within the Congress itself, prompting concerns over the integrity of the state government.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended a decision to raise quota reservations in housing schemes by citing compliance with central government directives aimed at minority welfare. He countered accusations of unconstitutional measures by pointing out similar implementations under federal schemes, questioning critics of the policy's rationale.

(With inputs from agencies.)