BJP Says Karnataka Minister 'Busy Betting' Amid Series Of Rapes In Bengaluru, Congress Reacts

6 hours ago

Last Updated:October 23, 2025, 13:58 IST

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya slammed Karnataka government over rising rape incidents, accusing G Parameshwara of "betting" at a Kabaddi match, while Parameshwara denied the allegations.

 PTI/File)

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya. (Image: PTI/File)

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the Congress-led government in Karnataka over the recent incidents of rape in Bengaluru.

Targetting the state government over the rising crimes against women, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya accused state Home Minister G. Parameshwara of indulging in “betting" during a Kabaddi match instead of addressing critical public issues.

“Three rapes in Bengaluru, one in Mysuru, but Home Minister is busy betting on Kabbadi match," Tejasvi Surya said.

The BJP MP further stated that the law and order in the state has “collapsed", citing the rape of a nine-year-old girl in Mysuru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s home district.

The Bengaluru South MP further criticised CM Siddaramaiah, alleging that he “has got geography mixed and talks about new moon and full moon in his bid to appease those who celebrate looking at moon."

The BJP leader accused the CM of resorting to name-calling instead of addressing the surge in crimes, adding, “Even in MP Lad funds, 40-50% commission is being sought from contractors."

Targeting state minister Priyank Kharge over his call to restrict RSS activities, Surya stated that Karnataka lost investments worth $5 billion to Andhra Pradesh as he was “busy banning instead of getting investment." Taking a jibe, he suggested Kharge to ask for a “new portfolio — RSS affairs."

In response, Home Minister G Parameshwara dismissed the allegations, clarifying that his remarks at the Kabaddi match were taken out of context. “It was not betting," he said.

“Children from 31 zilla had come. There was a junior college-level Kabaddi match. Prizes were to be given, and I was invited, so I went. The DC, SP, and CEO were all present. Naturally, everyone was talking about who would win. Winning and losing were just light-hearted discussions. Do I have no sense? As Home Minister, would I go to the extent of placing bets? Do I have such little knowledge? Unnecessary controversy is being created. That was not betting; I’m giving a clarification. I am truly a sportsman," Parameshwara remarked.

The political row comes amid mounting public outrage over the recent sexual assault incidents reported in Karnataka.

Manisha Roy

Manisha Roy

Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18...Read More

Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18...

Read More

First Published:

October 23, 2025, 13:58 IST

News politics BJP Says Karnataka Minister 'Busy Betting' Amid Series Of Rapes In Bengaluru, Congress Reacts

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Read More

Read Full Article at Source