Updated On: 09 Aug 2026
KOLAR: Demanding the immediate removal of Minister B. Nagendra from the State Cabinet following serious corruption allegations, BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra announced that the party is fully prepared to launch an intense agitation during the upcoming Legislative Assembly session, as well as on the streets.
Speaking to media reporters here, Vijayendra pointed out that a charge sheet has already been filed against Nagendra. He expressed strong disapproval, stating that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar reinstated Nagendra to the Cabinet despite allegations involving the misappropriation of hundreds of crores from the Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation. He asserted that the BJP strongly condemns the decision to reinduct an individual who allegedly siphoned off funds meant for the welfare of Scheduled Tribe children into private bank accounts in Telangana. Responding to a query regarding Nagendra’s potential bail violations, he noted that the court would address the matter appropriately.
State Must Respond to Severe Drought Conditions
Highlighting the severe drought in the state due to insufficient rainfall, Vijayendra emphasized that farmers are suffering greatly and experiencing a severe crisis in accessing drinking water. He criticized the Chief Minister and state ministers for traveling to New Delhi regarding portfolio allocations instead of addressing the crisis on the ground. He stressed that farmers cultivating crops like ragi, sorghum, fruits, and vegetables are in dire straits due to water scarcity, yet the state government remains indifferent. Demand was made for immediate financial relief and loan waivers for farmers, urging the Chief Minister to wake up to their plight without further delay.
Government Should Action Relief Before Writing to the Centre
Addressing the issue of drought assistance, the BJP State President stated that the Chief Minister must answer what state relief has been directly provided, rather than relying solely on the Central Government. He remarked that writing letters to the Prime Minister while sitting idle accomplishes little. The state government should first distribute its own relief package before seeking funds from the Centre.
Support for Bidadi Farmers’ Agitation
Referring to the padayatra initiated by the JD(S) against the proposed Bidadi township project, Vijayendra stated that Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka had already clarified the party’s stance. He confirmed symbolic support for the agitation, noting that R. Ashoka and Chalavadi Narayanaswamy actively joined the march. Emphasizing that this protest was initiated by the farmers themselves, he accused the government of resorting to intimidation to forcibly acquire land and displace agricultural families. He reaffirmed that the party will staunchly oppose the Bidadi project both inside and outside the House.
Dismisses Priyank Kharge’s Statements on the RSS
Responding to statements regarding the RSS, Vijayendra remarked that past leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi had similarly spoken of banning or boycotting the organization without success. He advised Minister Priyank Kharge to recognize that the RSS has been dedicated to nation-building and patriotic service for decades. He stated that Kharge’s criticisms stem from a lack of understanding and urged him to focus on his governance duties, concluding that attempting to ban the RSS remains completely beyond his capability.
