BJP Alleges Multi-Crore Scam in Karnataka Excise Dept, Targets Siddaramaiah Govt

• BJP alleges a multi-crore corruption scam in the Karnataka Excise Department, targeting the Congress-led Siddaramaiah government.
• Leader of Opposition R Ashok claims the department, under the Finance Ministry, has become a revenue collection mechanism with fixed targets.
• Ashok cited the arrest of Excise Deputy Commissioner Jagadeesh Naik and others by Lokayukta police for a Rs 25 lakh bribe, holding CM Siddaramaiah responsible.
• Allegations include systematic bribe collection for various liquor licenses (CL-7, CL-2, CL-9, microbrewery), with funds reportedly reaching up to the minister.
• BJP demands the resignation of Excise Minister RB Thimmappur and a comprehensive probe, accusing the government of diverting funds for election campaigns.

Why It Matters: BJP accuses Karnataka's Siddaramaiah government of a multi-crore excise scam, demanding resignations and a probe.