Political Tensions Rise: Allegations of Election Funding Spark Controversy in Bihar

Karnataka's Deputy CM DK Shivakumar dismissed BJP claims of Congress funding Bihar polls, urging proof. He critiqued BJP for deflecting their issues. Meanwhile, the Mahagathbandhan Alliance finalizes its candidate list, though facing challenges as JMM withdraws. Bihar elections are set for November 6 and 11.

In a sharp rebuttal to the Bharatiya Janata Party's allegations, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday denied claims that the Congress party was funneling money into the Bihar Assembly elections. Speaking from Gandhinagar, Shivakumar recommended the BJP leaders, including BY Vijayendra and BY Raghavendra, to furnish evidence if any such fund transfers were true. "These statements are merely distractions," he argued, suggesting that the BJP worries about the INDIA block potentially gaining power in Bihar.

When questioned about the BJP's assertion that Karnataka's government might disintegrate by November, Shivakumar retorted, "The issues lie within the Union government. Our Karnataka government remains stable with its 140 MLAs, unlike the coalition at the Centre."

Discussing his conversation with Biocon Chair Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Shivakumar disclosed plans for Bengaluru's development but noted no specific road repair list was submitted. The IT-BT industry vows support, with Shivakumar scheduled for discussion with industry leaders.

The political battleground in Bihar readies for a major contest between the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and Mahagathbandhan for the 2025 elections. The NDA includes BJP, JD(U), and others, while the Mahagathbandhan features the Congress. Polls occur in November, with results on the 14th. Monday saw RJD finalize its candidate roster, though crisis looms as JMM exits.

The RJD leads Mahagathbandhan with 143 constituencies; Congress handles 61, CPI ML, and Mukesh Sahani's VIP cover the rest. JMM previously declared independent runs but formally withdrew, confirmed by senior party members.

(With inputs from agencies.)