Karnataka Minister B Nagendra Resigns Amidst Valmiki Corporation Scam Allegations
BENGALURU: In a significant political development for the Karnataka government, state Minister B Nagendra has resigned from his cabinet position. The move comes as the opposition intensified its pressure over his alleged involvement in the Rs 89 crore Valmiki Corporation scam.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed the media on Saturday, confirming that Nagendra submitted his resignation to protect the Congress party from further embarrassment. However, Shivakumar clarified that the resignation is currently being reviewed, and a final decision will be reached following consultations with the party’s high command in New Delhi.
A Controversial Tenure
Nagendra, who held the planning and statistics portfolio, had only been re-inducted into the state cabinet on August 3. His latest resignation marks a turbulent period for the Ballari Rural MLA, who has consistently maintained his innocence.
“Minister Nagendra has submitted his resignation to avoid embarrassment to the party,” Shivakumar stated. “After verifying the investigation reports and holding discussions, it is clear there is no truth to these allegations. Nagendra is innocent; he is a Dalit and Scheduled Caste leader who has defeated senior BJP figures, and the way he has been treated is deeply hurtful to the poor.”
Claims of Political Vendetta
Breaking down in tears during his announcement on Friday, Nagendra described his resignation as a “voluntary” act. He vehemently denied the charges, suggesting he is being targeted because of his tribal identity.
In a charged statement, he likened his current ordeal to the mythological killing of Shambuka from the Ramayana, claiming that “Manuwadi” forces are determined to prevent tribal leaders from rising in the political ranks. He further pointed out that while his name appeared in the second charge sheet filed by central agencies, it was notably absent from the initial CBI report.
Opposition Claims ‘Victory’
The opposition BJP, working in tandem with ally JD(S), has hailed the resignation as a major victory. The coalition had paralyzed the Assembly proceedings for days, demanding the minister’s immediate sacking following the financial irregularities scandal within the Valmiki Corporation.
Despite the political firestorm, Nagendra expressed gratitude toward Congress leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and DK Shivakumar, for their continued support.
Moving Forward
Addressing his next steps, the embattled minister announced plans to tour Karnataka, specifically targeting the 15 assembly constituencies reserved for Scheduled Tribes. He intends to use these visits to highlight the “injustice” he believes he has faced.
As the situation unfolds, the state government remains in a delicate position. With the resignation now officially on the table, all eyes are on the Congress high command to determine whether Nagendra will be permanently sidelined or if he will be allowed to return once the investigation clears his name.
