Sitharaman Accuses Siddaramaiah Over Tribal Funds Scam

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticized Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging misappropriation of Rs 187 crore from the Valmiki community fund. She accused Siddaramaiah of concealing facts and shifting blame onto the central government. The scandal involves illegal transfers to private accounts, with Former Karnataka minister B Nagendra under judicial custody and accusations against Congress for its involvement.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has leveled serious allegations against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing him of misappropriating Rs 187 crore belonging to the Valmiki community.

Addressing the media at the BJP office, Sitharaman cited the scam involving the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribe Corporation, which included the illegal transfer of Rs 88 crore.

Responding to Siddaramaiah's assertions that she should be held accountable due to the involvement of nationalized banks, Sitharaman castigated him for trying to deflect the blame. She highlighted that bank officials are under scrutiny and that no protection would be given to those involved. The scandal has resulted in the arrest of former minister B Nagendra by the Enforcement Directorate and has sparked outrage and demands for justice, especially for the SC/ST communities.